🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 152 (from laksa036)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa152.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical, ml_categories_json AS ml_categories_json, ml_types_json AS ml_types_json, ml_intent_types_json AS ml_intent_types_json, meta_language AS meta_language, attrs_author AS attrs_author, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(attrs_publish_time), 0) AS attrs_publish_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(attrs_original_publish_time), 0) AS attrs_original_publish_time, ifNull(attrs_is_republished, 0) AS attrs_is_republished, ifNull(attrs_nr_words, 0) AS attrs_nr_words, ifNull(attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words, 0) AS attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words, ifNull(body_ext_links_number, 0) AS body_ext_links_number, ifNull(body_int_links_number, 0) AS body_int_links_number, ifNull(meta_nofollow, 0) AS meta_nofollow, ifNull(meta_noarchive, 0) AS meta_noarchive, ifNull(props_was_rendered, 0) AS props_was_rendered, ifNull(src_redirect, \'\') AS src_redirect, ifNull(download_time_msec, 0) AS download_time_msec, ifNull(download_ttfb_msec, 0) AS download_ttfb_msec, ifNull(download_size, 0) AS download_size FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri","crawl_time":1775700934,"first_indexed_time":1376012999,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"org,wikipedia!en,\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri s443","src_root_hash":"17790707453426894952","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Maha Shivaratri - Wikipedia","meta_descriptions":[],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Maha Shivaratri\nMeditating Shiva statue on Maha-Shivaratri\nObserved by\nHindus\nType\nReligious\nSignificance\nCommemoration of the wedding of Shiva and Parvati\nVeneration of the Tandava dance of Shiva\nManifestation of the lingam\n[\n1\n]\nObservances\nFasting\nSelf-study\nJagarana\nLingam\npuja\nYoga\n[\n2\n]\nDate\nMaha Krishna Chaturdashi\n2026 date\n15 February (Sunday)\n[\n3\n]\nFrequency\nAnnual\nExplanatory note\non Hindu festival dates\nThe\nHindu calendar\nis lunisolar but most festival dates are specified using the lunar portion of the calendar. A lunar day is uniquely identified by three calendar elements:\nmāsa\n(lunar month),\npakṣa\n(lunar fortnight) and\ntithi\n(lunar day).\nFurthermore, when specifying the masa, one of two traditions are applicable, viz.\namānta\n\/\npūrṇimānta\n. If a festival falls in the waning phase of the moon, these two traditions identify the same lunar day as falling in two different (but successive) masa.\nA lunar year is shorter than a solar year by about eleven days. As a result, most Hindu festivals occur on different days in successive years on the Gregorian calendar.\nv\nt\ne\nMaha Shivaratri\nis a\nHindu festival\ncelebrated annually to worship the deity\nShiva\n, between February and March.\n[\n4\n]\nAccording to the\nHindu calendar\n, The festival is observed on the chaturdashi (14th lunar day) of krishna paksha (waning moon) of the month of Magha or Phalguna.\n[\n4\n]\n[\n5\n]\nThe month may vary from month of magh or Phalguna as per Purnimata and Amanta Calendar but is observed on the same lunar night across the regions. The festival commemorates the marriage of Shiva and\nParvati\n,\n[\n6\n]\nand the occasion of Shiva performing his\nritual dance\ncalled\ntandava\n.\n[\n7\n]\n[\n8\n]\nIt is a notable festival in\nHinduism\n, marking a remembrance of \"overcoming darkness and ignorance\" in life and the world. It is observed by remembering Shiva and chanting prayers,\nfasting\n, and meditating on ethics and virtues such as honesty, non-injury to others, charity, forgiveness, and the discovery of Shiva.\n[\n5\n]\nArdent devotees stay awake throughout this night. Others visit one of the\nShiva temples\nor go on a pilgrimage to the\nJyotirlingams\n. The festival is believed to have originated in 5th century BCE.\n[\n5\n]\nIn\nKashmir Shaivism\n, the festival is called Har-ratri or phonetically simpler Haerath or Herath by Shiva devotees of the Kashmir region.\n[\n9\n]\n[\n10\n]\nThe term Maha Shivaratri is a compound of three Sanskrit elements:\nmaha (महा) meaning\n\"great\", Shiva (शिव), the Hindu deity, and ratri (रात्रि), meaning \"night\". The literal meaning is \"the Great Night of Shiva.\" The festival is observed annually on the\nkrishna paksha\n(waning moon)\nchaturdashi\n(14th lunar day) of the month of\nMagha\nor\nPhalguna\n[\n11\n]\nIn the\nAmanta\nlunar calendar, where a lunar month ends on the new moon day (\nAmavasiya\n), the date falls in the month of Magha. In the\nPurnimanta\nlunar calendar, where a lunar month ends on the full moon day (\nPurnima\n), the same lunar day of Maha Shivaratri is reckoned as occurring in Phalguna. Despite the difference in month name, the festival is observed on the same lunar night across India.\n[\n12\n]\n[\n13\n]\nIn\nKashmir\n, Shivaratri is referred to as Herath (Kashmiri: हेरथ \/ ہیرَتھ). The name is commonly understood to derive from \"Har Ratri\" (\"Night of Hara\"), Hara being a name of Shiva. In the Kashmiri Pandit tradition, the observance of Herath expands beyond a single night and spans approximately twenty-three days, beginning with Hur-e-Okdoh (the first day of the dark fortnight of the\nPurnimanta\nmonth of Phaguna) and concluding on Teel-e-aetham (the eighth day of the bright fortnight of Phagun).\n[\n14\n]\n[\n15\n]\nMaha Shivratri is also known as Padmarajarathri (पद्मराजरात्रि), a sacred night dedicated to Lord Shiva, observed with fasting, prayers, and night-long worship by devotees.\n[\n16\n]\n[\n17\n]\nThe origin of Maha Shivaratri is mentioned mainly in Puranic literature. One of the first mentions appears in the Shiva Purana, which links the story of the hunter Gurudruha with Shivaratri.\n[\n18\n]\nThe story of Gurudruha, who is also referred to as Lubdhaka, is later found in the Javanese didactic text\nSiwaratrikalpa\n, which is dated to being composed between 1466 and 1478.\n[\n19\n]\nThe festival is also mentioned in the Linga Purana and the Skanda Purana.\n[\n20\n]\nArcheological origins\n[\nedit\n]\nOne of eighteen seals depicting the \"human and tiger\" motif from the\nIndus Valley Civilization\n.\n[\n21\n]\nThese seals closely resemble the story of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka) that is associated with Maha Shivaratri.\nAccording to some scholars, the Lubdhaka (hunter) legend associated with Maha Shivaratri may find its roots in the\nIndus Valley Civilization.\n[\n22\n]\nArchaeological evidence such as the\nPashupati seal\nhas been widely interpreted by researchers as indicating early forms of Shiva or proto-Shaiva worship.\n[\n23\n]\nArchaeologist Gregory Possehl identified at least eighteen examples of a recurring \"human and tiger\" motif in Harappan glyptic art from sites including Harappa, Mohenjo-daro, and Chanhu-daro. These seals closely resemble the story of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka) that appears in the Shiva Purana.\n[\n24\n]\nRituals and observances\n[\nedit\n]\nA festival of contemplation\nDuring the Vigil Night of Shiva, Mahashivaratri,\nwe are brought to the moment of interval\nbetween destruction and regeneration;\nit symbolizes the night\nwhen we must contemplate on that which\nwatches the growth out of the decay.\nDuring Mahashivaratri we have to be alone\nwith our sword, the Shiva out of us.\nWe have to look behind and before,\nto see what evil needs eradicating from our heart,\nwhat growth of virtue we need to encourage.\nShiva is not only outside of us but within us.\nTo unite ourselves with the One Self\nis to recognize the Shiva in us.\n—\nThe Theosophical Movement, Volume 72\n[\n25\n]\nMaha Shivaratri is particularly important in the\nShaivism\ntradition of\nHinduism\n. Shivaratri (\"Night of Shiva\") refers to the monthly observance that falls on the 14th night (\nchaturdashi\n) of every lunar fortnight during the waning phase of the moon. Each lunar month therefore contains one Shivaratri. Devotees observe fasting, night vigil (\njagarana\n), and worship of the linga on these days. Thus, Maha Shivaratri may be understood as the \"great\" or preeminent Shivaratri among the twelve monthly Shivaratris in a lunar year.\n[\n26\n]\n[\n27\n]\nUnlike most Hindu festivals that are celebrated during the day, Maha Shivaratri is celebrated at night. It is a festival notable for its fasting and meditation on Shiva and an all-night vigil at Shiva temples.\n[\n5\n]\nNight vigil\n(jagarana)\n[\nedit\n]\nThe celebration includes maintaining a\njagarana\n, an all-night vigil and prayers, because Shaiva Hindus mark this night as \"overcoming darkness and ignorance\" in one's life and the world through Shiva. In temples, the night is divided into four quarters (p\nraharas\n), each with its own ritual worship and singing of mantras.\n[\n28\n]\n[\n29\n]\nOfferings of fruits, leaves, sweets and milk are made to Shiva, some perform all-day fasting with Vedic or Tantric worship of Shiva, and some perform meditative\nyoga\n.\n[\n30\n]\nThe injunctions from the Kalanirnaya of Madhvacharya are also followed during the\njagarana.\n[\n31\n]\nIn\nShaivism\n, fasting is traditionally associated with\nShiva\nworship. It is customary for the devotees of\nShiva\nnot to eat anything until they worship him and make him offerings. On most of the days, devotees do not fast for a whole day because the worship is performed in the early morning. However, on the day of Maha Shivaratri, they wait because the worship continues late into the night.\n[\n32\n]\n[\n33\n]\n[\n34\n]\nDuring the fast, Iodized salt is completely avoided, and instead, food is prepared using rock salt or unrefined sea salt\n(sendha namak)\n. Those fasting may do \"nirjala vrat,\" (fasting from all food and water), or fast from meat, eating only fruits and milk during the day.\n[\n35\n]\nEating food made from rice, wheat, or pulses is also discouraged.\n[\n36\n]\nTamasik\nfoods such as onion, garlic, and alcohol are also avoided as they are believed to increase lethargy.\n[\n37\n]\nThe fast is broken on the next day\n(chaturdashi)\nafter taking a bath.\n[\n38\n]\nRitual worship (puja) of the\nlingam\nis the central religious act of Maha Shivaratri. Devotees offer water, milk, yogurt, honey, ghee, and other sacred substances in the ritual known as abhisheka.\n[\n35\n]\nCoconut water is generally avoided for the abhisheka, as it becomes\n\"nirmalaya\"\n(leftover of an offering) after being offered, and therefore becomes unconsumable.\n[\n39\n]\n[\n40\n]\nMore than 49 types of plant species from 34 families are used as offerings to the deity throughout various regions of India on Maha Shivaratri. However, leaves of the bilva (Aegle marmelos), considered sacred to Shiva, are the most commonly offered plants.\n[\n41\n]\nIn Kashmir, walnuts are soaked in water in earthen pots and buried in the ground for four to five days before Shivaratri. On the day of the festival, they are retrieved, offered to Lord Shiva, and distributed to devotees as\nprasada.\n[\n42\n]\nMany regions in India and Nepal observe Maha Shivaratri not only through temple worship and fasting, but also through large public fairs (melas) and pilgrimage gatherings at important Shaiva sacred sites.\n[\n43\n]\nOne of the most prominent gatherings takes place at the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, where Maha Shivaratri is among the largest annual religious festivals. Thousands of devotees, including ascetics and sadhus from across South Asia, assemble at the temple complex to perform night vigils, offer bilva leaves, and participate in ritual bathing in the nearby\nBagmati River\n.\n[\n44\n]\nThe\nMandi Shivaratri Fair\nheld in the town of\nMandi\nis also famous as a venue for Maha Shivaratri celebrations. It is believed that all gods and goddesses of the area, said to number more than 200, assemble here on the day of Maha Shivaratri.\n[\n45\n]\n[\n46\n]\nThe significance of the dance tradition to this festival has historical roots. Maha Shivaratri has served as a historic confluence of artists for annual dance festivals at major Hindu temples such as at\nKonark\n,\nKhajuraho\n,\nPattadakal\n,\nModhera\nand\nChidambaram\n.\n[\n47\n]\nThis event is called\nNatyanjali\n, literally \"worship through dance\", at the Chidambaram temple which is famous for its sculpture depicting all dance mudras in the ancient Hindu text of performance arts called\nNatya Shastra\n.\n[\n48\n]\n[\n49\n]\nSimilarly, at Khajuraho Shiva temples, a major fair and dance festival on Maha Shivaratri, involving Shaiva pilgrims camped over miles around the temple complex, was documented by Alexander Cunningham in 1864.\n[\n50\n]\nOn Maha Shivaratri, many devotees perform pilgrimages to the major\nJyotirlinga\nShiva temples of India, such as\nVaranasi\nand\nSomanatha\n. They also serve as sites for fairs and special events.\n[\n51\n]\n[\n52\n]\nIn Tamil Nadu, pilgrimages are also made to the\nAnnamalaiyar\ntemple located in\nTiruvannamalai\ndistrict. The special process of worship on this day is Girivalam or Giri Pradakshina, a 14-kilometer barefoot walk around Shiva's temple on top of the hill. A huge lamp of oil and\ncamphor\nis lit on the hilltop at sunset, not to be confused with\nKarthigai Deepam.\n[\n53\n]\nA ritual marathon is undertaken by the devotees to the 12 Shiva shrines in the district of\nKanyakumari\non the day of Shivaratri called\nSivalaya Ottam\n. During this period, the rope used for hoisting the temple flag is coated with turmeric powder.\n[\n54\n]\nIn\nPunjab\n, Shobha Yatras would be organised by various Hindu organisations in different cities. It is a grand festival for\nPunjabi Hindus\n.\n[\n55\n]\nMaha Shivaratri is mentioned in several\nPuranas\n, particularly the\nSkanda Purana\n,\nLinga Purana\n,\nand\nPadma Purana\n. These medieval era Shaiva texts present different versions associated with this festival, such as fasting, and offering reverence to a\nlingam\n—an emblematic figure of Shiva.\n[\n5\n]\nDifferent legends describe the significance of Maha Shivaratri. According to one legend in the\nShaivism\ntradition, this is the night when Shiva performs the heavenly dance of creation, preservation and destruction.\n[\n7\n]\n[\n8\n]\nThe chanting of hymns, the reading of Shiva scriptures and the chorus of devotees joins this cosmic dance and remembers Shiva's presence everywhere. According to another legend, this is the night when Shiva and Parvati got married.\n[\n7\n]\n[\n56\n]\nIt is also believed that on this particular day, Shiva gulped the\nHalahala\nproduced during the\nSamudra Manthana\nand held it in his neck, which bruised and turned blue. As a result, he acquired the epithet\nNilakantha\n.\n[\n57\n]\nThe Lingodbhava legend\n[\nedit\n]\nThe Linga Purana describes another legend known as\nLingodbhava\n(the emergence of the linga) in connection with Maha Shivaratri.\n[\n58\n]\nIn this account, Brahma and Vishnu dispute their supremacy. To settle the debate, a luminous pillar of fire suddenly appeared in front of them. This event was known as\nlingodbhava\n(the birth of the Linga).  Brahma took the form of a swan and ascended, trying to find its top, while Vishnu took the form of a boar and descended, seeking its bottom. After thousands of years of fruitless search, both conceded that neither could find an end. At that moment, Shiva emerged from within the flame, and the first Linga was born. The day Shiva appeared and declared his eternal nature is believed to be the day of Maha Shivaratri.\n[\n59\n]\n[\n60\n]\n[\n61\n]\nMany legends explain the significance of Maha Shivaratri, one being it is the night of\nShiva's dance\n(Tandava)\nBilva (Aegle marmelos) leaves mentioned in the Legend of Gurudruha and traditionally offered to Shiva during Maha Shivaratri\nThe legend of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka)\n[\nedit\n]\nThe\nShiva Purana\ncontains the popular and detailed story of a forest hunter named Gurudruha (also called Lubdhaka in Balineese texts), which narrates one of the earliest textual explanations for the ritual practice of bilipatra (bilva) leaf offerings during Maha Shivaratri. On one Maha Shivaratri night, Gurudruha, a hunter with no formal religious background, went to the forest to hunt and bring home food for his parents. To escape the threat of wild animals, he climbed a bilva tree. During the first quarter of the night, a hind deer came to drink from the lake. Gurudruha aimed his bow at her. The frightened deer pleaded for her life, explaining that she had young fawns at home and requesting permission to entrust them to her husband before returning to face death. After some hesitation, he agreed. While waiting for the deer to return and to keep himself awake the whole night, he plucked bilva leaves and dropped them to the forest floor. Unknown to Gurudruha, a Shiva linga rested directly beneath the tree. When dawn arrived, thousands of leaves lay upon the linga.\n[\n62\n]\n[\n63\n]\n[\n64\n]\nAt dawn, the deer returned with her family and told the hunter that if he wished to kill her, he would also have to take their lives. As he raised his bow once more, additional bilva leaves fell upon the Shiva linga. The accumulated punya (spiritual merit) from the worship he had unknowingly performed throughout the night had destroyed his sins and transformed his heart. Thus, he released the deer. Pleased by Lubdhaka's accidental vigil and devotion, Shiva appeared before him and granted a boon, declaring that he would be reborn as the king of the town of Shrungaverapura and that\nLord Rama\nwould visit his home and ultimately grant him liberation. In his next life, Gurudruha was born as\nGuha.\n[\n65\n]\nMahashivaratri Celebrations of Kotappakonda (\nPalnadu\n,\nAndhra Pradesh\n) observed at night, usually in lighted temples or specially prepared\nprabha\n(above).\nPashupatinath Temple\nMaha Shivaratri is a national holiday in Nepal and celebrated widely in temples all over the country, especially in the\nPashupatinath temple\n. Thousands of devotees visit the famous\nShiva Shakti Peetham\nnearby as well. Maha Shivaratri is celebrated as Nepali Army Day amid a spectacular ceremony held at the Army Pavilion,\nTundikhel\n.\n[\n66\n]\nCrowds of sadhus and saints travel to Pashupatinath Temple located in Kathmandu from all of Nepal and neighbouring India to celebrate the day and perform puja on this day.\n[\n67\n]\nIn Pakistan, Maha Shivaratri is observed by Hindu communities at several historic temple sites, including the Katas Raj Temples in Punjab. The festival is typically celebrated for one day and one night. In 2006, approximately 300 Indian pilgrims attended the festival at the site, and subsequent years saw participation by both Indian and Pakistani Hindus. In 2010 and 2011, around 2,000 Pakistani Hindus from various regions reportedly gathered at Katas Raj for Shivaratri observances. In 2005, Lal Krishna Advani visited the temple complex and publicly expressed concern over its deteriorated condition. The site is opened to the public only during Shivaratri celebrations, but restricted by the government for the rest of the year.\n[\n68\n]\nAnother major temple where Shivaratri is celebrated is the\nShree Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple in Karachi\nwhose Shivaratri festival is attended by 25,000 people.\n[\n69\n]\nOn the Shivaratri night, Hindus in Karachi fast and visit the temple. Later, devotees from the\nChanesar Goth\ncome to the temple carrying water from the holy river\nGanges\n, in order to bathe the idol of\nShiva\n.\nPuja\nis performed until 5 am, followed by an\naarti\n. Devotees then walk barefoot with women carrying a\npooja thali\ncontaining flowers, incense sticks, rice, coconut and a\ndiya\nto the sea after which they are free to break their fast. Breakfast is served in the temple kitchen.\n[\n70\n]\nMaha Shivaratri is the main Hindu festival among the\nShaiva Hindu diaspora\nfrom\nNepal\nand\nIndia\n. In\nIndo-Caribbean\ncommunities, thousands of Hindus spend the festival night in over four hundred temples across multiple countries, offering special\njhalls\n(milk and curd, flowers, sugarcane and sweets) to Shiva.\n[\n71\n]\nIn 2026, the PM of Trinidad and Tobago,\nKamla Persad-Bissessar\n, celebrated Maha Shivaratri by visiting nine Hindu temples across her constituency overnight, joining devotees in the night vigil.\n[\n72\n]\nIn Oman, Maha Shivaratri is observed by the Hindu diaspora at the historic\nMotishwar Mandir\nin the Muttrah area of Muscat.\n[\n73\n]\n[\n74\n]\nThe temple, dedicated to Shiva, was built in 1909 by the Bhatia merchant community from Sindh and Gujarat, whose trading networks had been present in Muscat since the early 16th century. The complex contains shrines to Adi Motishwar Mahadev and\nHanuman\n, and serves as one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Persian Gulf region.\n[\n75\n]\nDuring Maha Shivaratri, more than 20,000 devotees gather at the temple to perform prayers and night-long worship dedicated to Shiva.\n[\n76\n]\nOutside the Indian subcontinent\n[\nedit\n]\nIn\nMauritius\n, Hindus go on pilgrimage to\nGanga Talao\n, a crater-lake.\n[\n77\n]\nMaha Shivaratri is known as Siwa Ratri in\nIndonesia\nand is celebrated by Hindus in\nBali\nand\nJava\nas a major festival.\n[\n78\n]\nA family worshipping\nShiva Linga\nduring fasting period.\nPradosha\nRudraksha\nVibhuti\nRudra\nLinga\nRudrabhisheka\nJalabhisheka\n^\nStephen Knapp (2012), Hindu Gods & Goddesses, Jaico Publishing House, India,\nISBN\n \n9788184953664\n, page 110\n^\nMelton, J. Gordon (2011).\nReligious Celebrations: An Encyclopedia of Holidays, Festivals, Solemn Observances, and Spiritual Commemorations\n. ABC-CLIO. pp. \n541–\n542.\nISBN\n \n978-1-59884-206-7\n.\n^\n15th February 2026, Sunday\n^\na\nb\nLochtefeld, James G. (2002).\nThe Illustrated Encyclopedia of Hinduism: N-Z\n. Rosen. p. 637.\nISBN\n \n978-0-8239-3180-4\n.\n^\na\nb\nc\nd\ne\nJones, Constance; D. Ryan, James (2006).\nEncyclopedia of Hinduism\n. Infobase Publishing. p. 269.\nISBN\n \n978-0-8160-7564-5\n.\n^\nCoulter, Charles Russell; Turner, Patricia (6 December 2021).\nEncyclopedia of Ancient Deities\n. McFarland. p. 428.\nISBN\n \n978-0-7864-9179-7\n.\n^\na\nb\nc\nDhoraisingam, Samuel S. (2006).\nPeranakan Indians of Singapore and Melaka\n. Institute of Southeast Asian Studies. p. 35.\nISBN\n \n978-981-230-346-2\n.\n^\na\nb\nOm Prakash Juneja; Chandra Mohan (1990).\nAmbivalence: Studies in Canadian Literature\n. Allied. pp. \n156–\n157.\nISBN\n \n978-81-7023-109-7\n.\n^\nBrunn, Stanley D. (2015).\nThe Changing World Religion Map: Sacred Places, Identities, Practices and Politics\n. Springer. pp. \n402–\n403.\nISBN\n \n978-94-017-9376-6\n.\n^\nMaitra, Asim (1986).\nReligious Life of the Brahman: A Case Study of Maithil Brahmans\n. Munshilal. p. 125.\nISBN\n \n978-81-210-0171-7\n.\n^\nAllard, Syama (10 March 2021).\n\"5 things to know about Maha Shivaratri\"\n.\nHindu American Foundation\n. Retrieved\n12 February\n2026\n.\n^\nTEMPORAL CONCEPTS and PERCEPTION OF TIME in the Ancient Orient. Proceedings of the Workshop “Calendar Festivals of the Ancient Orient” held in St. Petersburg 20th–21th November 2020 edited by Vladimir V. Emelianov St. Petersburg 2021\n^\n\"Lunar months - Purnimanta and Amanta system\"\n.\nekohumm.com\n. Retrieved\n12 February\n2026\n.\n^\n\"MahaShivratri-Herath: The cultural code of Kashmir\"\n.\nhindupost.in\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 7 March 2024\n. Retrieved\n14 February\n2026\n.\n^\n\"Shivratri Puja (Vatak Puja \/ Herath Puja)\"\n.\nwww.kashmiribooks.com\n. Retrieved\n14 February\n2026\n.\n^\nYadav, Puja (20 February 2020).\n\"Maha Shivratri 2020: Date, day, significance, puja time, importance and why celebrate\"\n.\nIndia Today\n. Retrieved\n15 February\n2026\n.\n^\nPTI (9 March 2013).\n\"Know why Mahashivratri is celebrated\"\n.\nIndia TV News\n. Retrieved\n26 February\n2026\n.\n^\nSIVA PURANAM Published by Sri L.V. Subrahmanyam, I.A.S., Executive Officer, T.T.Devasthanams, Tirupati and Printed at T.T.D. Press, Tirupati.\n^\nKakawin Siwaratri Kalpa\n.\n^\n\"Maha Shivratri 2025: Significance, History & Rituals of the Great Nigh\"\n.\nGayatri Heritage\n. 31 January 2025\n. Retrieved\n14 February\n2026\n.\n^\nPossehl, Gregory L. \"Indus folklore: an unknown story on some Harappan objects.\"\nIntercultural relations between South and Southwest Asia. Studies in commemoration of ECL during Caspers (1934–1996). BAR International Series\n(1826): 140-144.\n^\nKahoor, Khan, Shahbaig (19 July 2024).\n\"Deciphering Indus script and Pashupati Seal of Indus Valley Civilization\"\n.\nSSRN\n \n4900721\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 30 May 2025\n. Retrieved\n18 February\n2026\n.\n{{\ncite web\n}}\n:  CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (\nlink\n)\n^\nSrinivasan, Doris (1975).\n\"The So-Called Proto-śiva Seal from Mohenjo-Daro: An Iconological Assessment\"\n.\nArchives of Asian Art\n.\n29\n:\n47–\n58.\nISSN\n \n0066-6637\n.\nJSTOR\n \n20062578\n.\n^\nPossehl, Gregory L. \"Indus folklore: an unknown story on some Harappan objects.\"\nIntercultural relations between South and Southwest Asia. Studies in commemoration of ECL during Caspers (1934–1996). BAR International Series\n(1826): 140-144.\n^\n\"Shiva\"\n.\nThe Theosophical Movement\n(reprint).\n72\n(4). TEOS, Theosophy Company, Mumbai: 137. 2002 [February 1962]. Archived from\nthe original\non 15 February 2023\n. Retrieved\n21 February\n2020\n.\n^\n\"Monthly Shivratri Fast - How to dp Masik ShivaRatri Fasting\"\n.\nEshwar Bhakti\n. Retrieved\n14 February\n2026\n.\n^\nA, Bhavya (26 February 2025).\n\"Maha Shivratri\"\n.\nCoalition of Hindus of North America\n. Retrieved\n14 February\n2026\n.\n^\nRaj, Selva J.; Harman, William P. (1 February 2012).\nDealing with Deities: The Ritual Vow in South Asia\n. State University of New York Press.\nISBN\n \n978-0-7914-8200-1\n.\n^\nMahashivratri 2026: Timings And Puja Rituals Explained, Nikhil Pandey NDTV.\n^\nMahashivaratri\nArchived\n27 March 2014 at the\nWayback Machine\n, Government of Orissa;\nMaha Shivaratri\n, Public Holidays\n^\nVanlaltlani, T\nand Patmury, Joseph (1994)\nSivaratri: An Indian festival of Repentance\n. Doing theology with the festivals and customs of Asia, Singapore. pp 59-68\n^\n\"Mahashivratri 2022: 5 Foods You Can Have While Observing Mahashivratri Vrat (Fast)\"\n.\n^\n\"Maha Shivaratri Fasting Rules and Vrat Vidhi\"\n.\nThe Times of India\n. 11 March 2021.\n^\n\"Maha Shivaratri 2023: What to eat if you are fasting\"\n.\n^\na\nb\n\"Cleanse your body this Maha Shivratri\"\n. 28 February 2022.\n^\n\"Mahashivratri 2023 fasting rules: Dos and don'ts to keep in mind while worshipping Lord Shiva\"\n.\nHindustan Times\n. 15 February 2023\n. Retrieved\n18 February\n2026\n.\n^\nTrending Desk (15 February 2026).\n\"Mahashivratri 2026 fasting do's and don'ts: What to do and what to avoid while observing a fast for Lord Shiva\"\n.\nThe Economic Times\n.\nISSN\n \n0013-0389\n. Retrieved\n18 February\n2026\n.\n^\n\"Mahashivratri 2023 fasting rules: Dos and don'ts to keep in mind while worshipping Lord Shiva\"\n. 15 February 2023.\n^\n\"Mahashivratri 2023 fasting rules: Dos and don'ts to keep in mind while worshipping Lord Shiva\"\n.\nHindustan Times\n. 15 February 2023\n. Retrieved\n18 February\n2026\n.\n^\nUSHA, B., K. VASANTHI, and C. ESAIVANI. \"BIOREMEDIATION OF TEMPLE WASTES (NIRMALAYA) BY EMPLOYING EUDRILUS EUGENIAE.\"\n^\nMandal, Ushashee, et al. \"Significance of Utilizing Plant Resource in Maha Shivratri For The Adoration of Lord Shiva, Odisha, India.\"\nPurakala, 31 (33)\n(2020): 0971-2143.\n^\nAyub, Humeera, Touseef Hussain Trak, and Ravi Upadhayay. \"Inventorization of Ethnosacred plants of Kishtwar district.\"\nWorld Journal of Pharmaceutical Research\n3.1 (2013): 1160.\n^\nSharma, L. R. (2005).\nQuality of Life in the Himalayan Region\n. Indus Publishing.\nISBN\n \n978-81-7387-173-3\n.\n^\nSivananda, Swami, and Swami Sahajananda.\nHindu fasts and festivals\n. Vol. 5. Divine Life Society, 1983.\n^\n\"International Shivaratri fair in Mandi\"\n. Himachal tourism. Archived from\nthe original\non 14 April 2010\n. Retrieved\n8 February\n2012\n.\n^\n\"The International Festival\"\n. Archived from\nthe original\non 1 April 2009\n. Retrieved\n7 February\n2010\n.\n^\nPintchman, Tracy (2007).\nWomen's Lives, Women's Rituals in the Hindu Tradition\n.\nOxford University Press\n. pp. \n194–\n195.\nISBN\n \n978-0-19-803934-1\n.\n^\nPintchman, Tracy (2007).\nWomen's Lives, Women's Rituals in the Hindu Tradition\n. Oxford University Press. pp. \n194–\n196.\nISBN\n \n978-0-19-803934-1\n.\n^\nPugh McCutchen, Brenda (2006).\nTeaching Dance as Art in Education\n. Human Kinetics. p. 450.\nISBN\n \n978-0-7360-5188-0\n.\n^\nShobita Punja (1999).\nKhajuraho: the first thousand years\n. Penguin Books. pp. \n71–\n74.\nISBN\n \n9780670891900\n.\n^\nEck, Diana L. (1982).\nBanras, City of Light\n. Knopf. pp. 113, 256, 276.\nISBN\n \n9780394519715\n.\n^\n\"🔱Shivaratri - Shivaratri Dates, Schedule and Timing 2023 | Next Shivaratri festival on 18 February 2023\"\n.\nvaranasiguru.com\n. 25 February 2022\n. Retrieved\n11 February\n2023\n.\n^\nda Fonseca, Fátima Barahona. \"NARRATIVES OF A SACRED MOUNTAIN. ARUNACHALA, TAMIL NADU, SOUTH OF INDIA.\"\nURBAN DESIGN AND PLANNING\n: 17.\n^\nadmin (18 October 2015).\n\"FAIRS AND FESTIVALS AT THIRUVITHAMCODE SHIVA AND VISHNU TEMPLES – AN OVERVIEW | rjisacjournal.com\"\n. Retrieved\n7 March\n2026\n.\n^\n\"Shiv Sena Punjab organises grand Shobha Yatra on Mahashivratri\"\n.\nThe Tribune\n. Retrieved\n15 February\n2026\n.\n^\nLeuthold, Steven (2010).\nCross-Cultural Issues in Art: Frames for Understanding\n. Routledge. pp. \n142–\n143.\nISBN\n \n978-1-136-85455-2\n.\n^\nShah, Vaishali (11 July 2019).\nHindu Culture and Lifestyle: Living Indian Traditions in the age of Artificial Intelligence\n. Notion Press.\nISBN\n \n978-1-64587-608-3\n.\n^\nNair, Shantha N. (21 February 2009).\nThe Lord Shiva\n. Pustak Mahal.\nISBN\n \n978-81-223-1039-9\n.\n^\nBoer, Lucas den; Cecil, Elizabeth A. (21 September 2020).\nFraming Intellectual and Lived Spaces in Early South Asia: Sources and Boundaries\n. Walter de Gruyter GmbH & Co KG.\nISBN\n \n978-3-11-055717-6\n.\n^\nAchuthananda, Swami (27 August 2018).\nThe Ascent of Vishnu and the Fall of Brahma\n. Relianz Communications Pty Ltd.\nISBN\n \n978-0-9757883-3-2\n.\n^\nRomano, Henry; Publications, DTTV.\nAncient India and the Vedic Gods\n. Dttv Publications.\n^\nClifton, Wolf Gordon. \"Sustainability policy and the stage of divine play: Hindu philosophy at the nexus of animal welfare, environment, and sustainable development.\"\nJournal of Animal Ethics\n13.2 (2023): 169-183.\n^\nTanakuṅ (29 June 2013).\nŚiwarātrikalpa of MPU Tanakuṅ: An Old Javanese poem, its Indian source and Balinese illustrations\n. Springer.\nISBN\n \n978-94-011-9429-7\n.\n^\nTeeuw, A.; Galestin, Th. P.; Robson, S. O.; Worsley, P. J.; Zoetmulder, P. J. (1969), Teeuw, A.; Galestin, Th. P.; Robson, S. O.; Worsley, P. J. (eds.),\n\"Four Balinese Illustrations of the Tale of Lubdhaka\"\n,\nŚiwarātrikalpa of MPU Tanakuṅ: An Old Javanese poem, its Indian source and Balinese illustrations\n, Dordrecht: Springer Netherlands, pp. \n215–\n308,\ndoi\n:\n10.1007\/978-94-011-9429-7_3\n,\nISBN\n \n978-94-011-9429-7\n, retrieved\n25 February\n2026\n{{\ncitation\n}}\n:  CS1 maint: work parameter with ISBN (\nlink\n)\n^\nSiva Purana - English Translation - J. L. Shastri - Part 3. Pg. 1431 - 1439\n^\n\"Nepali Army | नेपाली सेना\"\n.\n^\nPTI.\n\"About 10 lakh visitors expected to throng Pashupatinath temple on Maha Shivratri\"\n.\nDeccan Herald\n. Retrieved\n16 September\n2024\n.\n^\nGondal, N. A., and S. Arif. \"The Dying Temples of Hindus and Sikhs in Potohar Plateau: A Case.\" (2021): 241-250.\n^\n\"150-year-old Hindu temple under threat in Karachi\"\n.\nIndiatoday\n. 4 April 2014\n. Retrieved\n28 August\n2020\n.\n^\nShazia Hasan (7 March 2016).\n\"Hindus celebrate Maha Shivratri festival in Karachi\"\n.\nDawn\n. Retrieved\n28 August\n2020\n.\n^\n\"Trinidad Hindus observe Shivratri amid Carnival Celebration\"\n. Repeating Islands. 2 March 2014. Archived from\nthe original\non 21 September 2016\n. Retrieved\n31 August\n2016\n.\n^\n\"PM observes Maha Shivaratri with overnight temple visits\"\n.\nTrinidad Express Newspapers\n. 16 February 2026\n. Retrieved\n7 March\n2026\n.\n^\nPattnaik, Jajati K.; Panda, Chandan K. (30 June 2022).\n\"INDIAN DIASPORA IN OMAN\"\n.\nTowards Excellence\n:\n1401–\n1414.\ndoi\n:\n10.37867\/te1402116\n.\nISSN\n \n0974-035X\n.\n^\nMehta, Sandhya Rao (2 October 2022).\n\"Strategic Belonging: Hindu Identity and Performance in Oman\"\n.\nAsian Journal of Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies\n.\n16\n(4):\n402–\n416.\ndoi\n:\n10.1080\/25765949.2022.2151741\n.\nISSN\n \n2576-5949\n.\n^\nMarkovits, Claude (22 June 2000).\nThe Global World of Indian Merchants, 1750–1947: Traders of Sind from Bukhara to Panama\n. Cambridge University Press.\nISBN\n \n978-1-139-43127-9\n.\n^\n\"PM Narendra  Modi visits Shiva temple in Oman\"\n.\nThe Economic Times\n. 12 February 2018.\nISSN\n \n0013-0389\n. Retrieved\n7 March\n2026\n.\n^\n\"The sacred lake of Ganga Talao\"\n. CNN. 3 May 2016\n. Retrieved\n12 June\n2018\n.\n^\nhttps:\/\/thebalisun.com\/incredible-hindu-festival-in-java-is-an-essential-add-on-adventure-for-bali-tourists\/\nMedia related to\nShivaratri\nat Wikimedia Commons\nMaha Shivaratri celebrations in the USA by The Pluralism Project\nMahashivratri images","attrs_markdown":"[Jump to content](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#bodyContent)\n\nMain menu\n\nMain menu\n\nmove to sidebar\n\nhide\n\nNavigation\n\n- [Main page](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Main_Page \"Visit the main page [z]\")\n- [Contents](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:Contents \"Guides to browsing Wikipedia\")\n- [Current events](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Portal:Current_events \"Articles related to current events\")\n- [Random article](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:Random \"Visit a randomly selected article [x]\")\n- [About Wikipedia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:About \"Learn about Wikipedia and how it works\")\n- [Contact us](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:Contact_us \"How to contact Wikipedia\")\n\nContribute\n\n- [Help](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Help:Contents \"Guidance on how to use and edit Wikipedia\")\n- [Learn to edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Help:Introduction \"Learn how to edit Wikipedia\")\n- [Community portal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:Community_portal \"The hub for editors\")\n- [Recent changes](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:RecentChanges \"A list of recent changes to Wikipedia [r]\")\n- [Upload file](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:File_upload_wizard \"Add images or other media for use on Wikipedia\")\n- [Special pages](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:SpecialPages \"A list of all special pages [q]\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/static\/images\/icons\/enwiki-25.svg) ![Wikipedia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/static\/images\/mobile\/copyright\/wikipedia-wordmark-en-25.svg) ![The Free Encyclopedia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/static\/images\/mobile\/copyright\/wikipedia-tagline-en-25.svg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Main_Page)\n\n[Search](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:Search \"Search Wikipedia [f]\")\n\nAppearance\n\n- [Donate](https:\/\/donate.wikimedia.org\/?wmf_source=donate&wmf_medium=sidebar&wmf_campaign=en.wikipedia.org&uselang=en)\n- [Create account](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Special:CreateAccount&returnto=Maha+Shivaratri \"You are encouraged to create an account and log in; however, it is not mandatory\")\n- [Log in](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Special:UserLogin&returnto=Maha+Shivaratri \"You're encouraged to log in; however, it's not mandatory. [o]\")\n\nPersonal tools\n\n- [Donate](https:\/\/donate.wikimedia.org\/?wmf_source=donate&wmf_medium=sidebar&wmf_campaign=en.wikipedia.org&uselang=en)\n- [Create account](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Special:CreateAccount&returnto=Maha+Shivaratri \"You are encouraged to create an account and log in; however, it is not mandatory\")\n- [Log in](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Special:UserLogin&returnto=Maha+Shivaratri \"You're encouraged to log in; however, it's not mandatory. [o]\")\n\n## Contents\nmove to sidebar\n\nhide\n\n- [(Top)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri)\n- [1 Etymology](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#Etymology)\n  Toggle Etymology subsection\n  - [1\\.1 Other names](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#Other_names)\n- [2 Origins](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#Origins)\n  Toggle Origins subsection\n  - [2\\.1 Textual origins](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#Textual_origins)\n  - [2\\.2 Archeological origins](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#Archeological_origins)\n- [3 Rituals and observances](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#Rituals_and_observances)\n  Toggle Rituals and observances subsection\n  - [3\\.1 Night vigil *(jagarana)*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#Night_vigil_\\(jagarana\\))\n  - [3\\.2 Fasting](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#Fasting)\n  - [3\\.3 Puja and abhisheka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#Puja_and_abhisheka)\n  - [3\\.4 Fairs (Melas)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#Fairs_\\(Melas\\))\n  - [3\\.5 Dance (Nrutya)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#Dance_\\(Nrutya\\))\n  - [3\\.6 Pilgrimage](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#Pilgrimage)\n- [4 Legends](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#Legends)\n  Toggle Legends subsection\n  - [4\\.1 The Lingodbhava legend](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#The_Lingodbhava_legend)\n  - [4\\.2 The legend of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#The_legend_of_Gurudruha_\\(Lubdhaka\\))\n- [5 Global worship](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#Global_worship)\n  Toggle Global worship subsection\n  - [5\\.1 Nepal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#Nepal)\n  - [5\\.2 Pakistan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#Pakistan)\n  - [5\\.3 Caribbean](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#Caribbean)\n  - [5\\.4 Oman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#Oman)\n  - [5\\.5 Outside the Indian subcontinent](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#Outside_the_Indian_subcontinent)\n- [6 See also](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#See_also)\n- [7 References](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#References)\n- [8 External links](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#External_links)\n\nToggle the table of contents\n\n# Maha Shivaratri\n49 languages\n\n- [অসমীয়া](https:\/\/as.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A6%AE%E0%A6%B9%E0%A6%BE_%E0%A6%B6%E0%A6%BF%E0%A7%B1%E0%A7%B0%E0%A6%BE%E0%A6%A4%E0%A7%8D%E0%A7%B0%E0%A6%BF \"মহা শিৱৰাত্ৰি – Assamese\")\n- [अवधी](https:\/\/awa.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BF \"महाशिवरात्रि – Awadhi\")\n- [भोजपुरी](https:\/\/bh.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%BF \"शिवराति – Bhojpuri\")\n- [বাংলা](https:\/\/bn.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A6%AE%E0%A6%B9%E0%A6%BE_%E0%A6%B6%E0%A6%BF%E0%A6%AC%E0%A6%B0%E0%A6%BE%E0%A6%A4%E0%A7%8D%E0%A6%B0%E0%A6%BF \"মহা শিবরাত্রি – Bangla\")\n- [Deutsch](https:\/\/de.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shivaratri \"Shivaratri – German\")\n- [डोटेली](https:\/\/dty.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%80 \"महाशिवरात्री – Doteli\")\n- [Español](https:\/\/es.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri \"Maha Shivaratri – Spanish\")\n- [فارسی](https:\/\/fa.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D9%85%D8%A7%D9%87%D8%A7_%D8%B4%DB%8C%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%AA%D8%B1%DB%8C \"ماها شیوارتری – Persian\")\n- [Suomi](https:\/\/fi.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivratri \"Maha Shivratri – Finnish\")\n- [Français](https:\/\/fr.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahashivaratri \"Mahashivaratri – French\")\n- [ગુજરાતી](https:\/\/gu.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%AA%B6%E0%AA%BF%E0%AA%B5%E0%AA%B0%E0%AA%BE%E0%AA%A4%E0%AB%8D%E0%AA%B0%E0%AA%BF \"શિવરાત્રિ – Gujarati\")\n- [עברית](https:\/\/he.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D7%9E%D7%94%D7%90_%D7%A9%D7%99%D7%95%D7%95%D7%A8%D7%98%D7%A8%D7%99 \"מהא שיוורטרי – Hebrew\")\n- [हिन्दी](https:\/\/hi.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BF \"महाशिवरात्रि – Hindi\")\n- [Hrvatski](https:\/\/hr.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri \"Maha Shivaratri – Croatian\")\n- [Bahasa Indonesia](https:\/\/id.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri \"Maha Shivaratri – Indonesian\")\n- [Italiano](https:\/\/it.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mah%C4%81%C5%9Bivar%C4%81tri \"Mahāśivarātri – Italian\")\n- [日本語](https:\/\/ja.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E3%83%9E%E3%83%8F%E3%83%BC%E3%83%BB%E3%82%B7%E3%83%B4%E3%82%A1%E3%83%A9%E3%83%BC%E3%83%88%E3%83%AA%E3%83%BC \"マハー・シヴァラートリー – Japanese\")\n- [ಕನ್ನಡ](https:\/\/kn.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%B2%AE%E0%B2%B9%E0%B2%BE_%E0%B2%B6%E0%B2%BF%E0%B2%B5%E0%B2%B0%E0%B2%BE%E0%B2%A4%E0%B3%8D%E0%B2%B0%E0%B2%BF \"ಮಹಾ ಶಿವರಾತ್ರಿ – Kannada\")\n- [کٲشُر](https:\/\/ks.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%DB%81%DB%8C%D8%B1%D8%AA \"ہیرت – Kashmiri\")\n- [Lietuvių](https:\/\/lt.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha%C5%A1ivaratr%C4%97 \"Mahašivaratrė – Lithuanian\")\n- [मैथिली](https:\/\/mai.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%80 \"महाशिवरात्री – Maithili\")\n- [Олык марий](https:\/\/mhr.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D0%9C%D0%B0%D1%85%D0%B0%D1%88%D0%B8%D0%B2%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%82%D1%80%D0%B8 \"Махашиваратри – Eastern Mari\")\n- [മലയാളം](https:\/\/ml.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%B4%AE%E0%B4%B9%E0%B4%BE_%E0%B4%B6%E0%B4%BF%E0%B4%B5%E0%B4%B0%E0%B4%BE%E0%B4%A4%E0%B5%8D%E0%B4%B0%E0%B4%BF \"മഹാ ശിവരാത്രി – Malayalam\")\n- [मराठी](https:\/\/mr.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%80 \"महाशिवरात्री – Marathi\")\n- [Bahasa Melayu](https:\/\/ms.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri \"Maha Shivaratri – Malay\")\n- [नेपाली](https:\/\/ne.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BF \"महाशिवरात्रि – Nepali\")\n- [नेपाल भाषा](https:\/\/new.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BF \"महाशिवरात्रि – Newari\")\n- [Nederlands](https:\/\/nl.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri \"Maha Shivaratri – Dutch\")\n- [Norsk nynorsk](https:\/\/nn.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahasjivaratri \"Mahasjivaratri – Norwegian Nynorsk\")\n- [Norsk bokmål](https:\/\/no.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shivanatten \"Shivanatten – Norwegian Bokmål\")\n- [ଓଡ଼ିଆ](https:\/\/or.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%AC%AE%E0%AC%B9%E0%AC%BE_%E0%AC%B6%E0%AC%BF%E0%AC%AC%E0%AC%B0%E0%AC%BE%E0%AC%A4%E0%AD%8D%E0%AC%B0%E0%AC%BF \"ମହା ଶିବରାତ୍ରି – Odia\")\n- [ਪੰਜਾਬੀ](https:\/\/pa.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A8%AE%E0%A8%B9%E0%A8%BE%E0%A8%82_%E0%A8%B8%E0%A8%BC%E0%A8%BF%E0%A8%B5%E0%A8%B0%E0%A8%BE%E0%A8%A4%E0%A8%B0%E0%A9%80 \"ਮਹਾਂ ਸ਼ਿਵਰਾਤਰੀ – Punjabi\")\n- [Polski](https:\/\/pl.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha%C5%9Biwaratri \"Mahaśiwaratri – Polish\")\n- [پنجابی](https:\/\/pnb.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D9%85%DB%81%D8%A7%DA%BA_%D8%B4%D9%88%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%AA%D8%B1%DB%8C \"مہاں شوراتری – Western Punjabi\")\n- [Português](https:\/\/pt.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri \"Maha Shivaratri – Portuguese\")\n- [Русский](https:\/\/ru.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D0%9C%D0%B0%D1%85%D0%B0%D1%88%D0%B8%D0%B2%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%82%D1%80%D0%B8 \"Махашиваратри – Russian\")\n- [संस्कृतम्](https:\/\/sa.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%83 \"महाशिवरात्रिः – Sanskrit\")\n- [ᱥᱟᱱᱛᱟᱲᱤ](https:\/\/sat.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E1%B1%A2%E1%B1%9F%E1%B1%A6%E1%B1%9F_%E1%B1%A5%E1%B1%A4%E1%B1%B5%E1%B1%BD%E1%B1%A8%E1%B1%9F%E1%B1%9B%E1%B1%A8%E1%B1%A4 \"ᱢᱟᱦᱟ ᱥᱤᱵᱽᱨᱟᱛᱨᱤ – Santali\")\n- [سنڌي](https:\/\/sd.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D9%85%DA%BE%D8%A7%D8%B4%D9%88%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%AA%D8%B1%D9%8A \"مھاشوراتري – Sindhi\")\n- [සිංහල](https:\/\/si.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%B6%B8%E0%B7%84%E0%B7%8F_%E0%B7%81%E0%B7%92%E0%B7%80%E0%B6%BB%E0%B7%8F%E0%B6%AD%E0%B7%8A%E2%80%8D%E0%B6%BB%E0%B7%92_%E0%B6%8B%E0%B6%AD%E0%B7%8A%E0%B7%83%E0%B7%80%E0%B6%BA \"මහා ශිවරාත්‍රි උත්සවය – Sinhala\")\n- [தமிழ்](https:\/\/ta.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%AE%AE%E0%AE%95%E0%AE%BE_%E0%AE%9A%E0%AE%BF%E0%AE%B5%E0%AE%B0%E0%AE%BE%E0%AE%A4%E0%AF%8D%E0%AE%A4%E0%AE%BF%E0%AE%B0%E0%AE%BF \"மகா சிவராத்திரி – Tamil\")\n- [ತುಳು](https:\/\/tcy.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%B2%B6%E0%B2%BF%E0%B2%B5%E0%B2%B0%E0%B2%BE%E0%B2%A4%E0%B3%8D%E0%B2%B0%E0%B2%BF \"ಶಿವರಾತ್ರಿ – Tulu\")\n- [తెలుగు](https:\/\/te.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%B0%AE%E0%B0%B9%E0%B0%BE%E0%B0%B6%E0%B0%BF%E0%B0%B5%E0%B0%B0%E0%B0%BE%E0%B0%A4%E0%B1%8D%E0%B0%B0%E0%B0%BF \"మహాశివరాత్రి – Telugu\")\n- [ไทย](https:\/\/th.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%B8%A1%E0%B8%AB%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%A8%E0%B8%B4%E0%B8%A7%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%95%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B5 \"มหาศิวราตรี – Thai\")\n- [Татарча \/ tatarça](https:\/\/tt.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D0%9C%D0%B0%D1%85%D0%B0%D1%88%D0%B8%D0%B2%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%82%D1%80%D0%B8 \"Махашиваратри – Tatar\")\n- [Удмурт](https:\/\/udm.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D0%9C%D0%B0%D1%85%D0%B0%D1%88%D0%B8%D0%B2%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%82%D1%80%D0%B8 \"Махашиваратри – Udmurt\")\n- [Українська](https:\/\/uk.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D0%9C%D0%B0%D1%85%D0%B0-%D0%A8%D0%B8%D0%B2%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%82%D1%80%D1%96 \"Маха-Шиваратрі – Ukrainian\")\n- [اردو](https:\/\/ur.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D9%85%DB%81%D8%A7_%D8%B4%DB%8C%D9%88%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%AA%D8%B1%DB%8C \"مہا شیوراتری – Urdu\")\n- [中文](https:\/\/zh.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E6%B9%BF%E5%A9%86%E8%8A%82 \"湿婆节 – Chinese\")\n\n[Edit links](https:\/\/www.wikidata.org\/wiki\/Special:EntityPage\/Q848070#sitelinks-wikipedia \"Edit interlanguage links\")\n\n- [Article](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri \"View the content page [c]\")\n- [Talk](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Talk:Maha_Shivaratri \"Discuss improvements to the content page [t]\")\n\nEnglish\n\n- [Read](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri)\n- [Edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit \"Edit this page [e]\")\n- [View history](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=history \"Past revisions of this page [h]\")\n\nTools\n\nTools\n\nmove to sidebar\n\nhide\n\nActions\n\n- [Read](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri)\n- 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festival dedicated to the god Shiva\n\n| Maha Shivaratri |   |\n|---|---|\n| [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/0\/09\/02_Mahashivratree_festival.JPG\/250px-02_Mahashivratree_festival.JPG)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:02_Mahashivratree_festival.JPG)Meditating Shiva statue on Maha-Shivaratri |   |\n| Observed by | [Hindus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindus \"Hindus\") |\n| Type | Religious |\n| Significance | Commemoration of the wedding of Shiva and Parvati  Veneration of the Tandava dance of Shiva Manifestation of the lingam[\\[1\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-SK-1) |\n| Observances | Fasting Self-study [Jagarana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jagran \"Jagran\") [Lingam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lingam \"Lingam\") [puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puja_\\(Hinduism\\) \"Puja (Hinduism)\") [Yoga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yoga \"Yoga\")[\\[2\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-Melton2011p541-2) |\n| Date | Maha Krishna Chaturdashi |\n| 2026 date | 15 February (Sunday)[\\[3\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-3) |\n| Frequency | Annual |\n\n| Explanatory note on Hindu festival dates |\n|---|\n| The [Hindu calendar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar \"Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar\") is lunisolar but most festival dates are specified using the lunar portion of the calendar. A lunar day is uniquely identified by three calendar elements: [*māsa*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#chandramasa \"Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar\") (lunar month), [*pakṣa*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#paksha \"Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar\") (lunar fortnight) and [*tithi*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#tithi \"Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar\") (lunar day). Furthermore, when specifying the masa, one of two traditions are applicable, viz. [*amānta*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar#amanta \"Hindu calendar\") \/ [*pūrṇimānta*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar#purnimanta \"Hindu calendar\"). If a festival falls in the waning phase of the moon, these two traditions identify the same lunar day as falling in two different (but successive) masa. A lunar year is shorter than a solar year by about eleven days. As a result, most Hindu festivals occur on different days in successive years on the Gregorian calendar. |\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Hindu_festival_date_info \"Template:Hindu festival date info\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Hindu_festival_date_info \"Template talk:Hindu festival date info\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Hindu_festival_date_info \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Hindu festival date info\") |\n\n|   |\n|---|\n| Part of [a series](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Shaivism \"Category:Shaivism\") on |\n| [Shaivism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaivism \"Shaivism\") |\n| [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/3\/37\/SaivismFlag.svg\/250px-SaivismFlag.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:SaivismFlag.svg) |\n| Deities **[Parameshvara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Parameshvara_\\(epithet\\) \"Parameshvara (epithet)\")** *(Supreme being)* [Shiva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva \"Shiva\") [Sadasiva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sadasiva \"Sadasiva\") [Bhairava](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhairava \"Bhairava\") [Rudra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rudra \"Rudra\") [Virabhadra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Virabhadra \"Virabhadra\") [Shakti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shakti \"Shakti\") [Parvati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Parvati \"Parvati\") [Sati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sati_\\(Hindu_goddess\\) \"Sati (Hindu goddess)\") [Durga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Durga \"Durga\") [Kali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kali \"Kali\") [Ganesha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganesha \"Ganesha\") [Kartikeya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kartikeya \"Kartikeya\") [Forms of Shiva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Panchavimshatimurti \"Panchavimshatimurti\") [Others](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Hindu_deities \"List of Hindu deities\") |\n| Schools **Ati marga** [Pashupata](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pashupata_Shaivism \"Pashupata Shaivism\") [Kalamukha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kalamukha \"Kalamukha\") **[Mantra marga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mantra_marga \"Mantra marga\")** *Saiddhantika* [Shaiva Siddhanta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaiva_Siddhanta \"Shaiva Siddhanta\") *Non - Saiddhantika* [Kapalika](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kapalika \"Kapalika\") [Kaula](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kaula_\\(Hinduism\\) \"Kaula (Hinduism)\") [Aghori](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Aghori \"Aghori\") [Trika](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Trika \"Trika\") [Kubjika](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kubjika \"Kubjika\") [Kashmir Shaivism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kashmir_Shaivism \"Kashmir Shaivism\") [Pratyabhijna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pratyabhijna \"Pratyabhijna\") **Others** [Siddharism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Siddhar \"Siddhar\")\/[Nath](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nath \"Nath\") [Inchegeri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Inchegeri_Sampradaya \"Inchegeri Sampradaya\") [Veerashaivism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Veerashaivism \"Veerashaivism\")\/[Lingayats](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lingayats \"Lingayats\") [Shiva Advaita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva_Advaita \"Shiva Advaita\") |\n| Scholars and saints **Pashupatha** [Lakulisha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakulisha \"Lakulisha\") **Saiva Siddhantha** [Nayanars](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nayanars \"Nayanars\") [Manikkavacakar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Manikkavacakar \"Manikkavacakar\") [Meykandar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Meykandar \"Meykandar\") **Kashmir Shaivism** [Utpaladeva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Utpaladeva \"Utpaladeva\") [Vasugupta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vasugupta \"Vasugupta\") [Abhinavagupta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Abhinavagupta \"Abhinavagupta\") [Kshemaraja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kshemaraja \"Kshemaraja\") **Nath** [Navnath](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navnath \"Navnath\") **Lingayats** [Basava](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Basava \"Basava\") **Shiva Advaita** [Appayya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Appayya_Dikshita \"Appayya Dikshita\") **Indonesia** [Nirartha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dang_Hyang_Nirartha \"Dang Hyang Nirartha\") |\n| Scriptures and texts **Vedic** [Vedas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vedas \"Vedas\") [Shvetashvatara Upanishad](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shvetashvatara_Upanishad \"Shvetashvatara Upanishad\") **Puranas** [Shiva Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva_Purana \"Shiva Purana\") **Agamas-Tantras** [Agama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Agama_\\(Hinduism\\) \"Agama (Hinduism)\")\\-[Tantras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tantras_\\(Hinduism\\) \"Tantras (Hinduism)\") **Pashupata** [Pashupata-sutra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pashupata-sutra \"Pashupata-sutra\") **Shaiva Siddhanta** [Tirumurai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tirumurai \"Tirumurai\") **Kashmir Shaivism** [Shivasutras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva_Sutras_of_Vasugupta \"Shiva Sutras of Vasugupta\") [Tantraloka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tantraloka \"Tantraloka\") [Pratyabhijnahridayam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pratyabhijnahridayam \"Pratyabhijnahridayam\") [Vijñāna Bhairava Tantra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vij%C3%B1%C4%81na_Bhairava_Tantra \"Vijñāna Bhairava Tantra\") **Lingayat** [Vachanas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vachana_sahitya \"Vachana sahitya\") |\n| Philosophy Three Components [Pati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pashupati \"Pashupati\") [Pashu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%C4%80tman_\\(Hinduism\\) \"Ātman (Hinduism)\") [Pasam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/P%C4%81%C5%9Ba \"Pāśa\") Three bondages [Anava](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Anava \"Anava\") [Karma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Karma \"Karma\") [Maya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maya_\\(religion\\) \"Maya (religion)\") other aspects [36 Tattvas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tattva_\\(Shaivism\\) \"Tattva (Shaivism)\") [Yoga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yoga \"Yoga\") [Satkaryavada](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Satkaryavada \"Satkaryavada\") [Abhasavada](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Abhasavada \"Abhasavada\") [Svatantrya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Svatantrya \"Svatantrya\") [Aham](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Aham_\\(Kashmir_Shaivism\\) \"Aham (Kashmir Shaivism)\") |\n| Practices [Vibhuti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vibhuti \"Vibhuti\") [Rudraksha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rudraksha \"Rudraksha\") [Panchakshara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Om_Namah_Shivaya \"Om Namah Shivaya\") [Bilva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Aegle_marmelos#Religious_significance \"Aegle marmelos\") [Maha Shivaratri]() [Yamas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yamas \"Yamas\")\\-[Niyamas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Niyama \"Niyama\") [Guru](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru \"Guru\")\\-[Linga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lingam \"Lingam\")\\-[Jangam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jangam \"Jangam\") [Vama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vamachara \"Vamachara\") |\n| Related [Nandi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nandi_\\(Hinduism\\) \"Nandi (Hinduism)\") [Tantrism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tantra \"Tantra\") [Bhakti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhakti \"Bhakti\") [Jyotirlinga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jyotirlinga \"Jyotirlinga\") [Shiva Temples](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Shiva_temples \"Template:Shiva temples\") [Hinduism in Indonesia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_in_Indonesia \"Hinduism in Indonesia\") |\n| ![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/6\/67\/Aum_Om_red.svg\/20px-Aum_Om_red.svg.png) [Hinduism portal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Portal:Hinduism \"Portal:Hinduism\") |\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Saivism \"Template:Saivism\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Saivism \"Template talk:Saivism\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Saivism \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Saivism\") |\n\n**Maha Shivaratri** is a [Hindu festival](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_festival \"Hindu festival\") celebrated annually to worship the deity [Shiva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva \"Shiva\"), between February and March.[\\[4\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-:0-4) According to the [Hindu calendar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar \"Hindu calendar\"), The festival is observed on the chaturdashi (14th lunar day) of krishna paksha (waning moon) of the month of Magha or Phalguna.[\\[4\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-:0-4)[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-JonesRyan2006p269-5) The month may vary from month of magh or Phalguna as per Purnimata and Amanta Calendar but is observed on the same lunar night across the regions. The festival commemorates the marriage of Shiva and [Parvati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Parvati \"Parvati\"),[\\[6\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-6) and the occasion of Shiva performing his [ritual dance](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sacred_dance \"Sacred dance\") called [tandava](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tandava \"Tandava\").[\\[7\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-Dhoraisingam35-7)[\\[8\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-auto1-8)\n\nIt is a notable festival in [Hinduism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism \"Hinduism\"), marking a remembrance of \"overcoming darkness and ignorance\" in life and the world. It is observed by remembering Shiva and chanting prayers, [fasting](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vrata \"Vrata\"), and meditating on ethics and virtues such as honesty, non-injury to others, charity, forgiveness, and the discovery of Shiva.[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-JonesRyan2006p269-5) Ardent devotees stay awake throughout this night. Others visit one of the [Shiva temples](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva \"Shiva\") or go on a pilgrimage to the [Jyotirlingams](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jyotirlingam \"Jyotirlingam\"). The festival is believed to have originated in 5th century BCE.[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-JonesRyan2006p269-5)\n\nIn [Kashmir Shaivism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kashmir_Shaivism \"Kashmir Shaivism\"), the festival is called Har-ratri or phonetically simpler Haerath or Herath by Shiva devotees of the Kashmir region.[\\[9\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-brunn402-9)[\\[10\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-maitra125-10)\n\n## Etymology\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=1 \"Edit section: Etymology\")\\]\n\nThe term Maha Shivaratri is a compound of three Sanskrit elements: *maha (महा) meaning* \"great\", Shiva (शिव), the Hindu deity, and ratri (रात्रि), meaning \"night\". The literal meaning is \"the Great Night of Shiva.\" The festival is observed annually on the *krishna paksha* (waning moon) *chaturdashi* (14th lunar day) of the month of [Magha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Magha_\\(month\\) \"Magha (month)\") or [Phalguna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Phalguna \"Phalguna\")[\\[11\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-11) In the *Amanta* lunar calendar, where a lunar month ends on the new moon day (*Amavasiya*), the date falls in the month of Magha. In the *Purnimanta* lunar calendar, where a lunar month ends on the full moon day (*Purnima*), the same lunar day of Maha Shivaratri is reckoned as occurring in Phalguna. Despite the difference in month name, the festival is observed on the same lunar night across India.[\\[12\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-12)[\\[13\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-13)\n\n### Other names\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=2 \"Edit section: Other names\")\\]\n\nIn [Kashmir](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kashmir \"Kashmir\"), Shivaratri is referred to as Herath (Kashmiri: हेरथ \/ ہیرَتھ). The name is commonly understood to derive from \"Har Ratri\" (\"Night of Hara\"), Hara being a name of Shiva. In the Kashmiri Pandit tradition, the observance of Herath expands beyond a single night and spans approximately twenty-three days, beginning with Hur-e-Okdoh (the first day of the dark fortnight of the *Purnimanta* month of Phaguna) and concluding on Teel-e-aetham (the eighth day of the bright fortnight of Phagun).[\\[14\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-14)[\\[15\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-15)\n\nMaha Shivratri is also known as Padmarajarathri (पद्मराजरात्रि), a sacred night dedicated to Lord Shiva, observed with fasting, prayers, and night-long worship by devotees.[\\[16\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-16)[\\[17\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-17)\n\n## Origins\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=3 \"Edit section: Origins\")\\]\n\n### Textual origins\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=4 \"Edit section: Textual origins\")\\]\n\nThe origin of Maha Shivaratri is mentioned mainly in Puranic literature. One of the first mentions appears in the Shiva Purana, which links the story of the hunter Gurudruha with Shivaratri.[\\[18\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-18) The story of Gurudruha, who is also referred to as Lubdhaka, is later found in the Javanese didactic text [Siwaratrikalpa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%C5%9Aiwar%C4%81trikalpa \"Śiwarātrikalpa\"), which is dated to being composed between 1466 and 1478.[\\[19\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-19) The festival is also mentioned in the Linga Purana and the Skanda Purana.[\\[20\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-20)\n\n### Archeological origins\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=5 \"Edit section: Archeological origins\")\\]\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/2\/21\/Man_in_a_tree_fleeing_a_tiger._Mohenjo-daro.jpg\/250px-Man_in_a_tree_fleeing_a_tiger._Mohenjo-daro.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Man_in_a_tree_fleeing_a_tiger._Mohenjo-daro.jpg)\n\nOne of eighteen seals depicting the \"human and tiger\" motif from the [Indus Valley Civilization](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indus_Valley_Civilisation \"Indus Valley Civilisation\").[\\[21\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-21) These seals closely resemble the story of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka) that is associated with Maha Shivaratri.\n\nAccording to some scholars, the Lubdhaka (hunter) legend associated with Maha Shivaratri may find its roots in the [Indus Valley Civilization.](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indus_Valley_Civilisation \"Indus Valley Civilisation\")[\\[22\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-22) Archaeological evidence such as the [Pashupati seal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pashupati_seal \"Pashupati seal\") has been widely interpreted by researchers as indicating early forms of Shiva or proto-Shaiva worship.[\\[23\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-23) Archaeologist Gregory Possehl identified at least eighteen examples of a recurring \"human and tiger\" motif in Harappan glyptic art from sites including Harappa, Mohenjo-daro, and Chanhu-daro. These seals closely resemble the story of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka) that appears in the Shiva Purana.[\\[24\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-24)\n\n## Rituals and observances\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=6 \"Edit section: Rituals and observances\")\\]\n\n> **A festival of contemplation**\n> \n> During the Vigil Night of Shiva, Mahashivaratri,   \n>  we are brought to the moment of interval   \n>  between destruction and regeneration;   \n>  it symbolizes the night   \n>  when we must contemplate on that which   \n>  watches the growth out of the decay.   \n>  During Mahashivaratri we have to be alone   \n>  with our sword, the Shiva out of us.   \n>  We have to look behind and before,   \n>  to see what evil needs eradicating from our heart,   \n>  what growth of virtue we need to encourage.  \n>  Shiva is not only outside of us but within us.   \n>  To unite ourselves with the One Self   \n>  is to recognize the Shiva in us.\n\n—*The Theosophical Movement, Volume 72*[\\[25\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-25)\n\nMaha Shivaratri is particularly important in the [Shaivism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaivism \"Shaivism\") tradition of [Hinduism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism \"Hinduism\"). Shivaratri (\"Night of Shiva\") refers to the monthly observance that falls on the 14th night (*chaturdashi*) of every lunar fortnight during the waning phase of the moon. Each lunar month therefore contains one Shivaratri. Devotees observe fasting, night vigil (*jagarana*), and worship of the linga on these days. Thus, Maha Shivaratri may be understood as the \"great\" or preeminent Shivaratri among the twelve monthly Shivaratris in a lunar year.[\\[26\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-26)[\\[27\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-27) Unlike most Hindu festivals that are celebrated during the day, Maha Shivaratri is celebrated at night. It is a festival notable for its fasting and meditation on Shiva and an all-night vigil at Shiva temples.[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-JonesRyan2006p269-5)\n\n### Night vigil *(jagarana)*\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=7 \"Edit section: Night vigil (jagarana)\")\\]\n\nThe celebration includes maintaining a [*jagarana*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jagran \"Jagran\"), an all-night vigil and prayers, because Shaiva Hindus mark this night as \"overcoming darkness and ignorance\" in one's life and the world through Shiva. In temples, the night is divided into four quarters (p*raharas*), each with its own ritual worship and singing of mantras.[\\[28\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-28)[\\[29\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-29) Offerings of fruits, leaves, sweets and milk are made to Shiva, some perform all-day fasting with Vedic or Tantric worship of Shiva, and some perform meditative [yoga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yoga \"Yoga\").[\\[30\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-30) The injunctions from the Kalanirnaya of Madhvacharya are also followed during the *jagarana.*[\\[31\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-31)\n\n### Fasting\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=8 \"Edit section: Fasting\")\\]\n\nIn [Shaivism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaivism \"Shaivism\"), fasting is traditionally associated with [Shiva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva \"Shiva\") worship. It is customary for the devotees of [Shiva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva \"Shiva\") not to eat anything until they worship him and make him offerings. On most of the days, devotees do not fast for a whole day because the worship is performed in the early morning. However, on the day of Maha Shivaratri, they wait because the worship continues late into the night.[\\[32\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-32)[\\[33\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-33)[\\[34\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-34)\n\nDuring the fast, Iodized salt is completely avoided, and instead, food is prepared using rock salt or unrefined sea salt *(sendha namak)*. Those fasting may do \"nirjala vrat,\" (fasting from all food and water), or fast from meat, eating only fruits and milk during the day.[\\[35\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-:1-35) Eating food made from rice, wheat, or pulses is also discouraged.[\\[36\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-36) *Tamasik* foods such as onion, garlic, and alcohol are also avoided as they are believed to increase lethargy.[\\[37\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-37) The fast is broken on the next day *(chaturdashi)* after taking a bath.[\\[38\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-38)\n\n### Puja and abhisheka\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=9 \"Edit section: Puja and abhisheka\")\\]\n\nRitual worship (puja) of the [lingam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lingam \"Lingam\") is the central religious act of Maha Shivaratri. Devotees offer water, milk, yogurt, honey, ghee, and other sacred substances in the ritual known as abhisheka.[\\[35\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-:1-35) Coconut water is generally avoided for the abhisheka, as it becomes *\"nirmalaya\"* (leftover of an offering) after being offered, and therefore becomes unconsumable.[\\[39\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-39)[\\[40\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-40) More than 49 types of plant species from 34 families are used as offerings to the deity throughout various regions of India on Maha Shivaratri. However, leaves of the bilva (Aegle marmelos), considered sacred to Shiva, are the most commonly offered plants.[\\[41\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-41) In Kashmir, walnuts are soaked in water in earthen pots and buried in the ground for four to five days before Shivaratri. On the day of the festival, they are retrieved, offered to Lord Shiva, and distributed to devotees as [prasada.](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Prasada \"Prasada\")[\\[42\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-42)\n\n### Fairs (Melas)\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=10 \"Edit section: Fairs (Melas)\")\\]\n\nMany regions in India and Nepal observe Maha Shivaratri not only through temple worship and fasting, but also through large public fairs (melas) and pilgrimage gatherings at important Shaiva sacred sites.[\\[43\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-43) One of the most prominent gatherings takes place at the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, where Maha Shivaratri is among the largest annual religious festivals. Thousands of devotees, including ascetics and sadhus from across South Asia, assemble at the temple complex to perform night vigils, offer bilva leaves, and participate in ritual bathing in the nearby [Bagmati River](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bagmati_River \"Bagmati River\").[\\[44\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-44) The [Mandi Shivaratri Fair](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mandi_Shivaratri_Fair \"Mandi Shivaratri Fair\") held in the town of [Mandi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mandi,_Himachal_Pradesh \"Mandi, Himachal Pradesh\") is also famous as a venue for Maha Shivaratri celebrations. It is believed that all gods and goddesses of the area, said to number more than 200, assemble here on the day of Maha Shivaratri.[\\[45\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-mandi-45)[\\[46\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-shiv-46)\n\n### Dance (Nrutya)\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=11 \"Edit section: Dance (Nrutya)\")\\]\n\nThe significance of the dance tradition to this festival has historical roots. Maha Shivaratri has served as a historic confluence of artists for annual dance festivals at major Hindu temples such as at [Konark](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Konark_Sun_Temple \"Konark Sun Temple\"), [Khajuraho](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Khajuraho_Group_of_Monuments \"Khajuraho Group of Monuments\"), [Pattadakal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pattadakal \"Pattadakal\"), [Modhera](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sun_Temple,_Modhera \"Sun Temple, Modhera\") and [Chidambaram](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thillai_Nataraja_Temple,_Chidambaram \"Thillai Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram\").[\\[47\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-47) This event is called *[Natyanjali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Natyanjali \"Natyanjali\")*, literally \"worship through dance\", at the Chidambaram temple which is famous for its sculpture depicting all dance mudras in the ancient Hindu text of performance arts called *[Natya Shastra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Natya_Shastra \"Natya Shastra\")*.[\\[48\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-48)[\\[49\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-49) Similarly, at Khajuraho Shiva temples, a major fair and dance festival on Maha Shivaratri, involving Shaiva pilgrims camped over miles around the temple complex, was documented by Alexander Cunningham in 1864.[\\[50\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-50)\n\n### Pilgrimage\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=12 \"Edit section: Pilgrimage\")\\]\n\nOn Maha Shivaratri, many devotees perform pilgrimages to the major [Jyotirlinga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jyotirlinga \"Jyotirlinga\") Shiva temples of India, such as [Varanasi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Varanasi \"Varanasi\") and [Somanatha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Somanatha \"Somanatha\"). They also serve as sites for fairs and special events.[\\[51\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-51)[\\[52\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-52) In Tamil Nadu, pilgrimages are also made to the [Annamalaiyar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Arunachalesvara_Temple \"Arunachalesvara Temple\") temple located in [Tiruvannamalai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tiruvannamalai \"Tiruvannamalai\") district. The special process of worship on this day is Girivalam or Giri Pradakshina, a 14-kilometer barefoot walk around Shiva's temple on top of the hill. A huge lamp of oil and [camphor](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Camphor \"Camphor\") is lit on the hilltop at sunset, not to be confused with [Karthigai Deepam.](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Karthigai_Deepam \"Karthigai Deepam\")[\\[53\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-53) A ritual marathon is undertaken by the devotees to the 12 Shiva shrines in the district of [Kanyakumari](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kanyakumari \"Kanyakumari\") on the day of Shivaratri called [Sivalaya Ottam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sivalaya_Ottam \"Sivalaya Ottam\"). During this period, the rope used for hoisting the temple flag is coated with turmeric powder.[\\[54\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-54) In [Punjab](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Punjab,_India \"Punjab, India\"), Shobha Yatras would be organised by various Hindu organisations in different cities. It is a grand festival for [Punjabi Hindus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Punjabi_Hindus \"Punjabi Hindus\").[\\[55\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-55)\n\n## Legends\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=13 \"Edit section: Legends\")\\]\n\nMaha Shivaratri is mentioned in several [Puranas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puranas \"Puranas\"), particularly the *[Skanda Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Skanda_Purana \"Skanda Purana\")*, *[Linga Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Linga_Purana \"Linga Purana\"),* and *[Padma Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Padma_Purana \"Padma Purana\")*. These medieval era Shaiva texts present different versions associated with this festival, such as fasting, and offering reverence to a [lingam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lingam \"Lingam\")—an emblematic figure of Shiva.[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-JonesRyan2006p269-5)\n\nDifferent legends describe the significance of Maha Shivaratri. According to one legend in the [Shaivism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaivism \"Shaivism\") tradition, this is the night when Shiva performs the heavenly dance of creation, preservation and destruction.[\\[7\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-Dhoraisingam35-7)[\\[8\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-auto1-8) The chanting of hymns, the reading of Shiva scriptures and the chorus of devotees joins this cosmic dance and remembers Shiva's presence everywhere. According to another legend, this is the night when Shiva and Parvati got married.[\\[7\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-Dhoraisingam35-7)[\\[56\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-56) It is also believed that on this particular day, Shiva gulped the [Halahala](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Halahala \"Halahala\") produced during the [Samudra Manthana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Samudra_manthan \"Samudra manthan\") and held it in his neck, which bruised and turned blue. As a result, he acquired the epithet [Nilakantha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nilakanta_\\(Hinduism\\) \"Nilakanta (Hinduism)\").[\\[57\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-57)\n\n### The Lingodbhava legend\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=14 \"Edit section: The Lingodbhava legend\")\\]\n\nThe Linga Purana describes another legend known as *Lingodbhava* (the emergence of the linga) in connection with Maha Shivaratri.[\\[58\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-58) In this account, Brahma and Vishnu dispute their supremacy. To settle the debate, a luminous pillar of fire suddenly appeared in front of them. This event was known as *lingodbhava* (the birth of the Linga). Brahma took the form of a swan and ascended, trying to find its top, while Vishnu took the form of a boar and descended, seeking its bottom. After thousands of years of fruitless search, both conceded that neither could find an end. At that moment, Shiva emerged from within the flame, and the first Linga was born. The day Shiva appeared and declared his eternal nature is believed to be the day of Maha Shivaratri.[\\[59\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-59)[\\[60\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-60)[\\[61\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-61)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/7\/70\/Flickr_-_dalbera_-_Shiva_Natar%C3%A2dja%2C_Seigneur_de_la_Danse_%28mus%C3%A9e_Guimet%29.jpg\/250px-Flickr_-_dalbera_-_Shiva_Natar%C3%A2dja%2C_Seigneur_de_la_Danse_%28mus%C3%A9e_Guimet%29.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Flickr_-_dalbera_-_Shiva_Natar%C3%A2dja,_Seigneur_de_la_Danse_\\(mus%C3%A9e_Guimet\\).jpg)\n\nMany legends explain the significance of Maha Shivaratri, one being it is the night of [Shiva's dance](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nataraja \"Nataraja\")(Tandava)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/5\/5b\/Aegle_marmelosleaf_05.JPG\/250px-Aegle_marmelosleaf_05.JPG)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Aegle_marmelosleaf_05.JPG)\n\nBilva (Aegle marmelos) leaves mentioned in the Legend of Gurudruha and traditionally offered to Shiva during Maha Shivaratri\n\n### The legend of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka)\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=15 \"Edit section: The legend of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka)\")\\]\n\nThe [Shiva Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva_Purana \"Shiva Purana\") contains the popular and detailed story of a forest hunter named Gurudruha (also called Lubdhaka in Balineese texts), which narrates one of the earliest textual explanations for the ritual practice of bilipatra (bilva) leaf offerings during Maha Shivaratri. On one Maha Shivaratri night, Gurudruha, a hunter with no formal religious background, went to the forest to hunt and bring home food for his parents. To escape the threat of wild animals, he climbed a bilva tree. During the first quarter of the night, a hind deer came to drink from the lake. Gurudruha aimed his bow at her. The frightened deer pleaded for her life, explaining that she had young fawns at home and requesting permission to entrust them to her husband before returning to face death. After some hesitation, he agreed. While waiting for the deer to return and to keep himself awake the whole night, he plucked bilva leaves and dropped them to the forest floor. Unknown to Gurudruha, a Shiva linga rested directly beneath the tree. When dawn arrived, thousands of leaves lay upon the linga.[\\[62\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-62)[\\[63\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-63)[\\[64\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-64)\n\nAt dawn, the deer returned with her family and told the hunter that if he wished to kill her, he would also have to take their lives. As he raised his bow once more, additional bilva leaves fell upon the Shiva linga. The accumulated punya (spiritual merit) from the worship he had unknowingly performed throughout the night had destroyed his sins and transformed his heart. Thus, he released the deer. Pleased by Lubdhaka's accidental vigil and devotion, Shiva appeared before him and granted a boon, declaring that he would be reborn as the king of the town of Shrungaverapura and that [Lord Rama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rama \"Rama\") would visit his home and ultimately grant him liberation. In his next life, Gurudruha was born as [Guha.](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guha_\\(Ramayana\\) \"Guha (Ramayana)\")[\\[65\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-65)\n\n## Global worship\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=16 \"Edit section: Global worship\")\\]\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/d\/da\/Prabha_09.jpg\/250px-Prabha_09.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Prabha_09.jpg)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/9\/96\/Kotappakonda.jpg\/250px-Kotappakonda.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Kotappakonda.jpg)\n\nMahashivaratri Celebrations of Kotappakonda ([Palnadu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Palnadu_district \"Palnadu district\"), [Andhra Pradesh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Andhra_Pradesh \"Andhra Pradesh\")) observed at night, usually in lighted temples or specially prepared *prabha* (above).\n\n### Nepal\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=17 \"Edit section: Nepal\")\\]\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/f\/f6\/108_Night_View_Of_Pashupatinath_Temple.jpg\/250px-108_Night_View_Of_Pashupatinath_Temple.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:108_Night_View_Of_Pashupatinath_Temple.jpg)\n\nPashupatinath Temple\n\nMaha Shivaratri is a national holiday in Nepal and celebrated widely in temples all over the country, especially in the [Pashupatinath temple](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pashupatinath_temple \"Pashupatinath temple\"). Thousands of devotees visit the famous [Shiva Shakti Peetham](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shakta_pitha \"Shakta pitha\") nearby as well. Maha Shivaratri is celebrated as Nepali Army Day amid a spectacular ceremony held at the Army Pavilion, [Tundikhel](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tundikhel \"Tundikhel\").[\\[66\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-66) Crowds of sadhus and saints travel to Pashupatinath Temple located in Kathmandu from all of Nepal and neighbouring India to celebrate the day and perform puja on this day.[\\[67\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-67)\n\n### Pakistan\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=18 \"Edit section: Pakistan\")\\]\n\nIn Pakistan, Maha Shivaratri is observed by Hindu communities at several historic temple sites, including the Katas Raj Temples in Punjab. The festival is typically celebrated for one day and one night. In 2006, approximately 300 Indian pilgrims attended the festival at the site, and subsequent years saw participation by both Indian and Pakistani Hindus. In 2010 and 2011, around 2,000 Pakistani Hindus from various regions reportedly gathered at Katas Raj for Shivaratri observances. In 2005, Lal Krishna Advani visited the temple complex and publicly expressed concern over its deteriorated condition. The site is opened to the public only during Shivaratri celebrations, but restricted by the government for the rest of the year.[\\[68\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-68)\n\nAnother major temple where Shivaratri is celebrated is the [Shree Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple in Karachi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shree_Ratneshwar_Mahadev_Temple,_Karachi \"Shree Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple, Karachi\") whose Shivaratri festival is attended by 25,000 people.[\\[69\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-69) On the Shivaratri night, Hindus in Karachi fast and visit the temple. Later, devotees from the [Chanesar Goth](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chanesar_Goth \"Chanesar Goth\") come to the temple carrying water from the holy river [Ganges](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganges \"Ganges\"), in order to bathe the idol of [Shiva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lord_Shiva \"Lord Shiva\"). [Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puja_\\(Hinduism\\) \"Puja (Hinduism)\") is performed until 5 am, followed by an [aarti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Aarti \"Aarti\"). Devotees then walk barefoot with women carrying a [pooja thali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pooja_thali \"Pooja thali\") containing flowers, incense sticks, rice, coconut and a [diya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diya_\\(lamp\\) \"Diya (lamp)\") to the sea after which they are free to break their fast. Breakfast is served in the temple kitchen.[\\[70\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-Shazia_Hasan-70)\n\n### Caribbean\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=19 \"Edit section: Caribbean\")\\]\n\nMaha Shivaratri is the main Hindu festival among the [Shaiva Hindu diaspora](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaivite \"Shaivite\") from [Nepal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nepal \"Nepal\") and [India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/India \"India\"). In [Indo-Caribbean](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indo-Caribbean \"Indo-Caribbean\") communities, thousands of Hindus spend the festival night in over four hundred temples across multiple countries, offering special *jhalls* (milk and curd, flowers, sugarcane and sweets) to Shiva.[\\[71\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-71) In 2026, the PM of Trinidad and Tobago, [Kamla Persad-Bissessar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kamla_Persad-Bissessar \"Kamla Persad-Bissessar\"), celebrated Maha Shivaratri by visiting nine Hindu temples across her constituency overnight, joining devotees in the night vigil.[\\[72\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-72)\n\n### Oman\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=20 \"Edit section: Oman\")\\]\n\nIn Oman, Maha Shivaratri is observed by the Hindu diaspora at the historic [Motishwar Mandir](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Motishwar_Mandir \"Motishwar Mandir\") in the Muttrah area of Muscat.[\\[73\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-73)[\\[74\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-74) The temple, dedicated to Shiva, was built in 1909 by the Bhatia merchant community from Sindh and Gujarat, whose trading networks had been present in Muscat since the early 16th century. The complex contains shrines to Adi Motishwar Mahadev and [Hanuman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanuman \"Hanuman\"), and serves as one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Persian Gulf region.[\\[75\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-75) During Maha Shivaratri, more than 20,000 devotees gather at the temple to perform prayers and night-long worship dedicated to Shiva.[\\[76\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-76)\n\n### Outside the Indian subcontinent\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=21 \"Edit section: Outside the Indian subcontinent\")\\]\n\nIn [Mauritius](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mauritius \"Mauritius\"), Hindus go on pilgrimage to [Ganga Talao](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganga_Talao \"Ganga Talao\"), a crater-lake.[\\[77\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-77)\n\nMaha Shivaratri is known as Siwa Ratri in [Indonesia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indonesia \"Indonesia\") and is celebrated by Hindus in [Bali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bali \"Bali\") and [Java](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Java \"Java\") as a major festival.[\\[78\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-78)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/1\/15\/Lord_Shiva_devotees_offering_milk%2C_flowers%2C_fruits_and_bel_leaves_on_a_Shivaling_for_seeking_divine_blessings%2C_in_a_city_temple_at_the_celebration_of_Maha_Shivaratri%2C_in_New_Delhi_on_February_23%2C_2009_%281%29.jpg\/250px-thumbnail.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Lord_Shiva_devotees_offering_milk,_flowers,_fruits_and_bel_leaves_on_a_Shivaling_for_seeking_divine_blessings,_in_a_city_temple_at_the_celebration_of_Maha_Shivaratri,_in_New_Delhi_on_February_23,_2009_\\(1\\).jpg)\n\nA family worshipping [Shiva Linga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva_Linga \"Shiva Linga\") during fasting period.\n\n## See also\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=22 \"Edit section: See also\")\\]\n\n- [Pradosha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pradosha \"Pradosha\")\n- [Rudraksha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rudraksha \"Rudraksha\")\n- [Vibhuti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vibhuti \"Vibhuti\")\n- [Rudra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rudra \"Rudra\")\n- [Linga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Linga \"Linga\")\n- [Rudrabhisheka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rudrabhisheka \"Rudrabhisheka\")\n- [Jalabhisheka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jalabhisheka \"Jalabhisheka\")\n\n## References\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=23 \"Edit section: References\")\\]\n\n1. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-SK_1-0)**\n   Stephen Knapp (2012), Hindu Gods & Goddesses, Jaico Publishing House, India, [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [9788184953664](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/9788184953664 \"Special:BookSources\/9788184953664\")\n   \n   , page 110\n2. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-Melton2011p541_2-0)**\n   Melton, J. Gordon (2011). [*Religious Celebrations: An Encyclopedia of Holidays, Festivals, Solemn Observances, and Spiritual Commemorations*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=lD_2J7W_2hQC). ABC-CLIO. pp. 541–542\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-1-59884-206-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-59884-206-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-59884-206-7\")\n   \n   .\n3. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-3)** [15th February 2026, Sunday](https:\/\/www.drikpanchang.com\/festivals\/maha-shivaratri\/maha-shivaratri-date-time.html?year=2026)\n4. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-:0_4-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-:0_4-1)\n   Lochtefeld, James G. (2002). [*The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Hinduism: N-Z*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=GnmPzgEACAAJ). Rosen. p. 637. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-0-8239-3180-4](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-8239-3180-4 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-8239-3180-4\")\n   \n   .\n5. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-JonesRyan2006p269_5-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-JonesRyan2006p269_5-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-JonesRyan2006p269_5-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-JonesRyan2006p269_5-3) [***e***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-JonesRyan2006p269_5-4)\n   Jones, Constance; D. Ryan, James (2006). [*Encyclopedia of Hinduism*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=OgMmceadQ3gC&pg=PA269). Infobase Publishing. p. 269. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-0-8160-7564-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-8160-7564-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-8160-7564-5\")\n   \n   .\n6. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-6)**\n   Coulter, Charles Russell; Turner, Patricia (6 December 2021). [*Encyclopedia of Ancient Deities*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=QEJUEAAAQBAJ&dq=shivaratri+wedding&pg=PA428). McFarland. p. 428. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-0-7864-9179-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-7864-9179-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-7864-9179-7\")\n   \n   .\n7. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-Dhoraisingam35_7-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-Dhoraisingam35_7-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-Dhoraisingam35_7-2)\n   Dhoraisingam, Samuel S. (2006). [*Peranakan Indians of Singapore and Melaka*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=QHwcAgAAQBAJ&pg=PA35). Institute of Southeast Asian Studies. p. 35. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-981-230-346-2](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-981-230-346-2 \"Special:BookSources\/978-981-230-346-2\")\n   \n   .\n8. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-auto1_8-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-auto1_8-1)\n   Om Prakash Juneja; Chandra Mohan (1990). [*Ambivalence: Studies in Canadian Literature*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=39FHAAAAYAAJ). Allied. pp. 156–157\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-81-7023-109-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-7023-109-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-7023-109-7\")\n   \n   .\n9. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-brunn402_9-0)**\n   Brunn, Stanley D. (2015). [*The Changing World Religion Map: Sacred Places, Identities, Practices and Politics*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=CGh-BgAAQBAJ&pg=PA403). Springer. pp. 402–403\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-94-017-9376-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-94-017-9376-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-94-017-9376-6\")\n   \n   .\n10. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-maitra125_10-0)**\n    Maitra, Asim (1986). [*Religious Life of the Brahman: A Case Study of Maithil Brahmans*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=f3LXAAAAMAAJ). Munshilal. p. 125. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-81-210-0171-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-210-0171-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-210-0171-7\")\n    \n    .\n11. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-11)**\n    Allard, Syama (10 March 2021). [\"5 things to know about Maha Shivaratri\"](https:\/\/hinduamerican.org\/blog\/5-things-to-know-about-maha-shivaratri\/). *Hindu American Foundation*. Retrieved 12 February 2026.\n12. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-12)** TEMPORAL CONCEPTS and PERCEPTION OF TIME in the Ancient Orient. Proceedings of the Workshop “Calendar Festivals of the Ancient Orient” held in St. Petersburg 20th–21th November 2020 edited by Vladimir V. Emelianov St. Petersburg 2021\n13. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-13)**\n    [\"Lunar months - Purnimanta and Amanta system\"](https:\/\/www.ekohumm.com\/lunar-months-purnimanta-and-amanta-system). *ekohumm.com*. Retrieved 12 February 2026.\n14. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-14)**\n    [\"MahaShivratri-Herath: The cultural code of Kashmir\"](https:\/\/hindupost.in\/dharma-religion\/mahashivratri-herath-the-cultural-code-of-kashmir\/). *hindupost.in*. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20240307095524\/https:\/\/hindupost.in\/dharma-religion\/mahashivratri-herath-the-cultural-code-of-kashmir\/) from the original on 7 March 2024. Retrieved 14 February 2026.\n15. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-15)**\n    [\"Shivratri Puja (Vatak Puja \/ Herath Puja)\"](https:\/\/www.kashmiribooks.com\/kashmiri-shivratri-puja-vatak-puja-herath-puja-book). *www.kashmiribooks.com*. Retrieved 14 February 2026.\n16. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-16)**\n    Yadav, Puja (20 February 2020). [\"Maha Shivratri 2020: Date, day, significance, puja time, importance and why celebrate\"](https:\/\/www.indiatoday.in\/information\/story\/maha-shivratri-2020-date-day-significance-puja-time-importance-and-why-celebrate-1648338-2020-02-20). *India Today*. Retrieved 15 February 2026.\n17. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-17)**\n    PTI (9 March 2013). [\"Know why Mahashivratri is celebrated\"](https:\/\/www.indiatvnews.com\/news\/india\/know-why-mahashivratri-is-celebrated-20645.html). *[India TV News](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/India_TV_News \"India TV News\")*. Retrieved 26 February 2026.\n18. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-18)** SIVA PURANAM Published by Sri L.V. Subrahmanyam, I.A.S., Executive Officer, T.T.Devasthanams, Tirupati and Printed at T.T.D. Press, Tirupati.\n19. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-19)**\n    [*Kakawin Siwaratri Kalpa*](http:\/\/archive.org\/details\/kakawin-siwaratri-kalpa).\n20. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-20)**\n    [\"Maha Shivratri 2025: Significance, History & Rituals of the Great Nigh\"](https:\/\/gayatriheritage.com\/blogs\/our-blogs\/maha-shivratri-2024-significance-history-rituals-of-the-great-night-of-shiva). *Gayatri Heritage*. 31 January 2025. Retrieved 14 February 2026.\n21. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-21)** Possehl, Gregory L. \"Indus folklore: an unknown story on some Harappan objects.\" *Intercultural relations between South and Southwest Asia. Studies in commemoration of ECL during Caspers (1934–1996). BAR International Series* (1826): 140-144.\n22. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-22)**\n    Kahoor, Khan, Shahbaig (19 July 2024). [\"Deciphering Indus script and Pashupati Seal of Indus Valley Civilization\"](https:\/\/papers.ssrn.com\/sol3\/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4900721). [SSRN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/SSRN_\\(identifier\\) \"SSRN (identifier)\") [4900721](https:\/\/papers.ssrn.com\/sol3\/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4900721). [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20250530154201\/https:\/\/papers.ssrn.com\/sol3\/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4900721) from the original on 30 May 2025. Retrieved 18 February 2026.\n    \n    `{{cite web}}`: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list ([link](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:CS1_maint:_multiple_names:_authors_list \"Category:CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list\"))\n23. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-23)**\n    Srinivasan, Doris (1975). [\"The So-Called Proto-śiva Seal from Mohenjo-Daro: An Iconological Assessment\"](https:\/\/www.jstor.org\/stable\/20062578). *Archives of Asian Art*. **29**: 47–58\\. [ISSN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISSN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISSN (identifier)\") [0066-6637](https:\/\/search.worldcat.org\/issn\/0066-6637). [JSTOR](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/JSTOR_\\(identifier\\) \"JSTOR (identifier)\") [20062578](https:\/\/www.jstor.org\/stable\/20062578).\n24. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-24)** Possehl, Gregory L. \"Indus folklore: an unknown story on some Harappan objects.\" *Intercultural relations between South and Southwest Asia. Studies in commemoration of ECL during Caspers (1934–1996). BAR International Series* (1826): 140-144.\n25. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-25)**\n    [\"Shiva\"](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20230215001305\/https:\/\/www.ultindia.org\/tm_magazine\/7204shiva.html). *The Theosophical Movement* (reprint). **72** (4). TEOS, Theosophy Company, Mumbai: 137. 2002 \\[February 1962\\]. Archived from [the original](http:\/\/www.ultindia.org\/tm_magazine\/7204shiva.html) on 15 February 2023. Retrieved 21 February 2020.\n26. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-26)**\n    [\"Monthly Shivratri Fast - How to dp Masik ShivaRatri Fasting\"](https:\/\/pujayagna.com\/blogs\/hindu-fasting-days\/masik-shivratri). *Eshwar Bhakti*. Retrieved 14 February 2026.\n27. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-27)**\n    A, Bhavya (26 February 2025). [\"Maha Shivratri\"](https:\/\/cohna.org\/maha-shivratri\/). *Coalition of Hindus of North America*. Retrieved 14 February 2026.\n28. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-28)**\n    Raj, Selva J.; Harman, William P. (1 February 2012). [*Dealing with Deities: The Ritual Vow in South Asia*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=h80yOTwlAUcC&q=vigil&pg=PA147). State University of New York Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-7914-8200-1](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-7914-8200-1 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-7914-8200-1\")\n    \n    .\n29. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-29)** Mahashivratri 2026: Timings And Puja Rituals Explained, Nikhil Pandey NDTV.\n30. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-30)** [Mahashivaratri](http:\/\/www.odisha.gov.in\/portal\/LIWPL\/event_archive\/Events_Archives\/150MAHA_SHIVA_RATRI.pdf) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20140327171257\/http:\/\/www.odisha.gov.in\/portal\/LIWPL\/event_archive\/Events_Archives\/150MAHA_SHIVA_RATRI.pdf) 27 March 2014 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), Government of Orissa; [Maha Shivaratri](http:\/\/publicholidays.in\/maha-shivaratri\/), Public Holidays\n31. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-31)** **Vanlaltlani, T** and Patmury, Joseph (1994) *Sivaratri: An Indian festival of Repentance*. Doing theology with the festivals and customs of Asia, Singapore. pp 59-68\n32. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-32)**\n    [\"Mahashivratri 2022: 5 Foods You Can Have While Observing Mahashivratri Vrat (Fast)\"](https:\/\/www.ndtv.com\/food\/mahashivratri-2018-5-foods-you-can-have-while-observing-mahashivratri-vrat-fast-1811808).\n33. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-33)**\n    [\"Maha Shivaratri Fasting Rules and Vrat Vidhi\"](https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/religion\/rituals-puja\/maha-shivaratri-fasting-rules-and-vrat-vidhi\/articleshow\/81434471.cms). *The Times of India*. 11 March 2021.\n34. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-34)**\n    [\"Maha Shivaratri 2023: What to eat if you are fasting\"](https:\/\/bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com\/bangalore\/others\/maha-shivaratri-2023-what-to-eat-if-you-are-fasting\/articleshow\/98028141.cms).\n35. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-:1_35-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-:1_35-1)\n    [\"Cleanse your body this Maha Shivratri\"](https:\/\/www.hindustantimes.com\/lifestyle\/recipe\/cleanse-your-body-this-maha-shivratri-101646031274662.html). 28 February 2022.\n36. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-36)**\n    [\"Mahashivratri 2023 fasting rules: Dos and don'ts to keep in mind while worshipping Lord Shiva\"](https:\/\/www.hindustantimes.com\/lifestyle\/festivals\/mahashivratri-2023-fasting-rules-dos-and-don-ts-to-keep-in-mind-while-worshipping-lord-shiva-101676468072865.html). *Hindustan Times*. 15 February 2023. Retrieved 18 February 2026.\n37. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-37)**\n    Trending Desk (15 February 2026). [\"Mahashivratri 2026 fasting do's and don'ts: What to do and what to avoid while observing a fast for Lord Shiva\"](https:\/\/economictimes.indiatimes.com\/news\/new-updates\/maha-shivratri-2026-vrat-vidhi-lord-shiva-fasting-rules-timings-dos-and-donts-lord-shiva\/articleshow\/128341903.cms?from=mdr). *The Economic Times*. [ISSN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISSN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISSN (identifier)\") [0013-0389](https:\/\/search.worldcat.org\/issn\/0013-0389). Retrieved 18 February 2026.\n38. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-38)**\n    [\"Mahashivratri 2023 fasting rules: Dos and don'ts to keep in mind while worshipping Lord Shiva\"](https:\/\/www.hindustantimes.com\/lifestyle\/festivals\/mahashivratri-2023-fasting-rules-dos-and-don-ts-to-keep-in-mind-while-worshipping-lord-shiva-101676468072865.html). 15 February 2023.\n39. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-39)**\n    [\"Mahashivratri 2023 fasting rules: Dos and don'ts to keep in mind while worshipping Lord Shiva\"](https:\/\/www.hindustantimes.com\/lifestyle\/festivals\/mahashivratri-2023-fasting-rules-dos-and-don-ts-to-keep-in-mind-while-worshipping-lord-shiva-101676468072865.html). *Hindustan Times*. 15 February 2023. Retrieved 18 February 2026.\n40. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-40)** USHA, B., K. VASANTHI, and C. ESAIVANI. \"BIOREMEDIATION OF TEMPLE WASTES (NIRMALAYA) BY EMPLOYING EUDRILUS EUGENIAE.\"\n41. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-41)** Mandal, Ushashee, et al. \"Significance of Utilizing Plant Resource in Maha Shivratri For The Adoration of Lord Shiva, Odisha, India.\" *Purakala, 31 (33)* (2020): 0971-2143.\n42. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-42)** Ayub, Humeera, Touseef Hussain Trak, and Ravi Upadhayay. \"Inventorization of Ethnosacred plants of Kishtwar district.\" *World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research* 3.1 (2013): 1160.\n43. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-43)**\n    Sharma, L. R. (2005). [*Quality of Life in the Himalayan Region*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=oThuRcNAaN4C&dq=shivaratri+fair&pg=PA164). Indus Publishing. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-81-7387-173-3](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-7387-173-3 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-7387-173-3\")\n    \n    .\n44. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-44)** Sivananda, Swami, and Swami Sahajananda. *Hindu fasts and festivals*. Vol. 5. Divine Life Society, 1983.\n45. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-mandi_45-0)**\n    [\"International Shivaratri fair in Mandi\"](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20100414002705\/http:\/\/himachaltourism.gov.in\/post\/Mandi.aspx). Himachal tourism. Archived from [the original](http:\/\/himachaltourism.gov.in\/post\/Mandi.aspx) on 14 April 2010. Retrieved 8 February 2012.\n46. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-shiv_46-0)**\n    [\"The International Festival\"](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20090401052653\/http:\/\/mandishivratri.com\/about-mandi.html). Archived from [the original](http:\/\/mandishivratri.com\/about-mandi.html) on 1 April 2009. Retrieved 7 February 2010.\n47. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-47)**\n    Pintchman, Tracy (2007). [*Women's Lives, Women's Rituals in the Hindu Tradition*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=7lOc8ZoLV0wC&pg=PA194). [Oxford University Press](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Oxford_University_Press \"Oxford University Press\"). pp. 194–195\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-19-803934-1](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-803934-1 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-803934-1\")\n    \n    .\n48. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-48)**\n    Pintchman, Tracy (2007). [*Women's Lives, Women's Rituals in the Hindu Tradition*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=7lOc8ZoLV0wC&pg=PA194). Oxford University Press. pp. 194–196\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-19-803934-1](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-803934-1 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-803934-1\")\n    \n    .\n49. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-49)**\n    Pugh McCutchen, Brenda (2006). [*Teaching Dance as Art in Education*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=C0yjXGJ3EEoC). Human Kinetics. p. 450. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-7360-5188-0](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-7360-5188-0 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-7360-5188-0\")\n    \n    .\n50. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-50)**\n    Shobita Punja (1999). [*Khajuraho: the first thousand years*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=CwfWAAAAMAAJ). Penguin Books. pp. 71–74\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [9780670891900](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/9780670891900 \"Special:BookSources\/9780670891900\")\n    \n    .\n51. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-51)**\n    Eck, Diana L. (1982). [*Banras, City of Light*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=lkkqAAAAYAAJ). Knopf. pp. 113, 256, 276. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [9780394519715](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/9780394519715 \"Special:BookSources\/9780394519715\")\n    \n    .\n52. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-52)**\n    [\"🔱Shivaratri - Shivaratri Dates, Schedule and Timing 2023 \\| Next Shivaratri festival on 18 February 2023\"](https:\/\/www.varanasiguru.com\/maha-shivratri\/). *varanasiguru.com*. 25 February 2022. Retrieved 11 February 2023.\n53. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-53)** da Fonseca, Fátima Barahona. \"NARRATIVES OF A SACRED MOUNTAIN. ARUNACHALA, TAMIL NADU, SOUTH OF INDIA.\" *URBAN DESIGN AND PLANNING*: 17.\n54. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-54)**\n    admin (18 October 2015). [\"FAIRS AND FESTIVALS AT THIRUVITHAMCODE SHIVA AND VISHNU TEMPLES – AN OVERVIEW \\| rjisacjournal.com\"](https:\/\/www.rjisacjournal.com\/fairs-and-festivals-at-thiruvithamcode-shiva-and-vishnu-temples-an-overview\/). Retrieved 7 March 2026.\n55. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-55)**\n    [\"Shiv Sena Punjab organises grand Shobha Yatra on Mahashivratri\"](https:\/\/www.tribuneindia.com\/news\/jalandhar\/shiv-sena-punjab-organises-grand-shobha-yatra-on-mahashivratri\/). *The Tribune*. Retrieved 15 February 2026.\n56. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-56)**\n    Leuthold, Steven (2010). [*Cross-Cultural Issues in Art: Frames for Understanding*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=z9GsAgAAQBAJ&pg=PA142). Routledge. pp. 142–143\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-1-136-85455-2](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-136-85455-2 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-136-85455-2\")\n    \n    .\n57. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-57)**\n    Shah, Vaishali (11 July 2019). [*Hindu Culture and Lifestyle: Living Indian Traditions in the age of Artificial Intelligence*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=F7KhDwAAQBAJ&dq=did+shiva+drink+poison+on+mahashivratri&pg=PT9). Notion Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-1-64587-608-3](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-64587-608-3 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-64587-608-3\")\n    \n    .\n58. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-58)**\n    Nair, Shantha N. (21 February 2009). [*The Lord Shiva*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=Q4Od9pWMXCsC&q=shivaratri&pg=PT19). Pustak Mahal. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-81-223-1039-9](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-223-1039-9 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-223-1039-9\")\n    \n    .\n59. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-59)**\n    Boer, Lucas den; Cecil, Elizabeth A. (21 September 2020). [*Framing Intellectual and Lived Spaces in Early South Asia: Sources and Boundaries*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=SrH8DwAAQBAJ&q=lingodbhava&pg=PA75). Walter de Gruyter GmbH & Co KG. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-3-11-055717-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-3-11-055717-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-3-11-055717-6\")\n    \n    .\n60. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-60)**\n    Achuthananda, Swami (27 August 2018). [*The Ascent of Vishnu and the Fall of Brahma*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=F9FqDwAAQBAJ&dq=+Brahma+took+the+form+of+a+swan+and+ascended,+trying+to+find+its+top,+while+Vishnu+took+the+form+of+a+boar+and+descended,+seeking+its+bottom.++lingodbhava&pg=PA1). Relianz Communications Pty Ltd. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-9757883-3-2](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-9757883-3-2 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-9757883-3-2\")\n    \n    .\n61. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-61)**\n    Romano, Henry; Publications, DTTV. [*Ancient India and the Vedic Gods*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=d5p1EAAAQBAJ&dq=lingodbhava+maha+shivaratri&pg=PA1923). Dttv Publications.\n62. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-62)** Clifton, Wolf Gordon. \"Sustainability policy and the stage of divine play: Hindu philosophy at the nexus of animal welfare, environment, and sustainable development.\" *Journal of Animal Ethics* 13.2 (2023): 169-183.\n63. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-63)**\n    Tanakuṅ (29 June 2013). [*Śiwarātrikalpa of MPU Tanakuṅ: An Old Javanese poem, its Indian source and Balinese illustrations*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=kXXoCAAAQBAJ&dq=story+of+lubdhaka&pg=PR5). Springer. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-94-011-9429-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-94-011-9429-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-94-011-9429-7\")\n    \n    .\n64. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-64)**\n    Teeuw, A.; Galestin, Th. P.; Robson, S. O.; Worsley, P. J.; Zoetmulder, P. J. (1969), Teeuw, A.; Galestin, Th. P.; Robson, S. O.; Worsley, P. J. (eds.), [\"Four Balinese Illustrations of the Tale of Lubdhaka\"](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/978-94-011-9429-7_3), *Śiwarātrikalpa of MPU Tanakuṅ: An Old Javanese poem, its Indian source and Balinese illustrations*, Dordrecht: Springer Netherlands, pp. 215–308, [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\\(identifier\\) \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.1007\/978-94-011-9429-7\\_3](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007%2F978-94-011-9429-7_3), [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-94-011-9429-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-94-011-9429-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-94-011-9429-7\")\n    \n    , retrieved 25 February 2026\n    \n    `{{citation}}`: CS1 maint: work parameter with ISBN ([link](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:CS1_maint:_work_parameter_with_ISBN \"Category:CS1 maint: work parameter with ISBN\"))\n65. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-65)** Siva Purana - English Translation - J. L. Shastri - Part 3. Pg. 1431 - 1439\n66. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-66)**\n    [\"Nepali Army \\| नेपाली सेना\"](https:\/\/www.nepalarmy.mil.np\/viewnews\/379).\n67. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-67)**\n    PTI. [\"About 10 lakh visitors expected to throng Pashupatinath temple on Maha Shivratri\"](https:\/\/www.deccanherald.com\/india\/about-10-lakh-visitors-expected-to-throng-pashupatinath-temple-on-maha-shivratri-2928017). *Deccan Herald*. Retrieved 16 September 2024.\n68. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-68)** Gondal, N. A., and S. Arif. \"The Dying Temples of Hindus and Sikhs in Potohar Plateau: A Case.\" (2021): 241-250.\n69. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-69)**\n    [\"150-year-old Hindu temple under threat in Karachi\"](https:\/\/www.indiatoday.in\/world\/pakistan\/story\/shri-ratneshwar-mahadev-temple-karachi-overpass-pakistani-hindus-hrcp-187674-2014-04-04). *Indiatoday*. 4 April 2014. Retrieved 28 August 2020.\n70. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-Shazia_Hasan_70-0)**\n    Shazia Hasan (7 March 2016). [\"Hindus celebrate Maha Shivratri festival in Karachi\"](https:\/\/www.dawn.com\/news\/1243973). *Dawn*. Retrieved 28 August 2020.\n71. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-71)**\n    [\"Trinidad Hindus observe Shivratri amid Carnival Celebration\"](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20160921150332\/https:\/\/repeatingislands.com\/2014\/03\/01\/trinidad-hindus-observe-shivratri-amid-carnival-celebration\/). Repeating Islands. 2 March 2014. Archived from [the original](https:\/\/repeatingislands.com\/2014\/03\/01\/trinidad-hindus-observe-shivratri-amid-carnival-celebration\/) on 21 September 2016. Retrieved 31 August 2016.\n72. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-72)**\n    [\"PM observes Maha Shivaratri with overnight temple visits\"](https:\/\/trinidadexpress.com\/newsextra\/pm-observes-maha-shivaratri-with-overnight-temple-visits\/article_ab5e34c0-ec4b-4588-ac29-f085c19c5c4c.html). *Trinidad Express Newspapers*. 16 February 2026. Retrieved 7 March 2026.\n73. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-73)**\n    Pattnaik, Jajati K.; Panda, Chandan K. (30 June 2022). [\"INDIAN DIASPORA IN OMAN\"](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.37867\/te1402116). *Towards Excellence*: 1401–1414\\. [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\\(identifier\\) \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.37867\/te1402116](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.37867%2Fte1402116). [ISSN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISSN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISSN (identifier)\") [0974-035X](https:\/\/search.worldcat.org\/issn\/0974-035X).\n74. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-74)**\n    Mehta, Sandhya Rao (2 October 2022). [\"Strategic Belonging: Hindu Identity and Performance in Oman\"](https:\/\/www.tandfonline.com\/doi\/full\/10.1080\/25765949.2022.2151741). *Asian Journal of Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies*. **16** (4): 402–416\\. [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\\(identifier\\) \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.1080\/25765949.2022.2151741](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080%2F25765949.2022.2151741). [ISSN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISSN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISSN (identifier)\") [2576-5949](https:\/\/search.worldcat.org\/issn\/2576-5949).\n75. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-75)**\n    Markovits, Claude (22 June 2000). [*The Global World of Indian Merchants, 1750–1947: Traders of Sind from Bukhara to Panama*](https:\/\/books.google.ca\/books?hl=en&lr=&id=M2vu7Odjz6kC&oi=fnd&pg=PP1&dq=The+Global+World+of+Indian+Merchants,+1750%E2%80%931947:+Traders+of+Sind+from+...&ots=G-9UBfwKy6&sig=SeI6muYSU9Sx1PwSoE9XOYbvJ0k#v=onepage&q=The%20Global%20World%20of%20Indian%20Merchants,%201750%E2%80%931947:%20Traders%20of%20Sind%20from%20...&f=false). Cambridge University Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-1-139-43127-9](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-139-43127-9 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-139-43127-9\")\n    \n    .\n76. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-76)**\n    [\"PM Narendra Modi visits Shiva temple in Oman\"](https:\/\/economictimes.indiatimes.com\/news\/politics-and-nation\/pm-narendra-modi-visits-shiva-temple-in-oman\/articleshow\/62884919.cms?from=mdr). *The Economic Times*. 12 February 2018. [ISSN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISSN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISSN (identifier)\") [0013-0389](https:\/\/search.worldcat.org\/issn\/0013-0389). Retrieved 7 March 2026.\n77. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-77)**\n    [\"The sacred lake of Ganga Talao\"](https:\/\/www.cnn.com\/2016\/05\/03\/africa\/maha-shivaratri-mauritius\/index.html). CNN. 3 May 2016. Retrieved 12 June 2018.\n78. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-78)** <https:\/\/thebalisun.com\/incredible-hindu-festival-in-java-is-an-essential-add-on-adventure-for-bali-tourists\/>\n\n## External links\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=24 \"Edit section: External links\")\\]\n\n- [![Wikimedia Commons logo](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/4\/4a\/Commons-logo.svg\/20px-Commons-logo.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Commons-logo.svg) Media related to [Shivaratri](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Shivaratri \"commons:Category:Shivaratri\") at Wikimedia Commons\n- [Maha Shivaratri celebrations in the USA by The Pluralism Project](http:\/\/pluralism.org\/religions\/hinduism\/the-hindu-experience\/the-great-night-of-shiva\/)\n- [Mahashivratri images](https:\/\/www.ibc24.in\/maha-shivratri-2022\/full-hd-shivratri-images-780887.html)\n\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Shaivism_topics \"Template:Shaivism topics\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Shaivism_topics \"Template talk:Shaivism topics\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Shaivism_topics \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Shaivism topics\")[Shaivism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaivism \"Shaivism\") |   |   |\n|---|---|---|\n| **[History](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/History_of_Shaivism \"History of Shaivism\")** |   |   |\n| [Deities](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Forms_of_Shiva \"Category:Forms of Shiva\") | [Shiva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva \"Shiva\") [Bhairava](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhairava \"Bhairava\") [Dakshinamurti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dakshinamurti \"Dakshinamurti\") [Harihara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Harihara \"Harihara\") [Ishana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ishana \"Ishana\") [Nataraja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nataraja \"Nataraja\") [Sadyojata](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sadyojata \"Sadyojata\") [Tatpurusha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tatpurusha \"Tatpurusha\") [Vamadeva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vamadeva \"Vamadeva\") [Shakti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shakti \"Shakti\") [Ardhanarishvara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ardhanarishvara \"Ardhanarishvara\") [Sati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sati_\\(Hindu_goddess\\) \"Sati (Hindu goddess)\") [Parvati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Parvati \"Parvati\") [Ganesha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganesha \"Ganesha\") [Kartikeya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kartikeya \"Kartikeya\") [Devasena](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Devasena \"Devasena\") [Valli](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Valli \"Valli\") [Nandi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nandi_\\(mythology\\) \"Nandi (mythology)\") | [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/2\/21\/India_statue_of_nataraja.jpg\/120px-India_statue_of_nataraja.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:India_statue_of_nataraja.jpg) |\n| [Texts](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Religious_text \"Religious text\") | *[Shvetashvatara Upanishad](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shvetashvatara_Upanishad \"Shvetashvatara Upanishad\")* *[Shivarahasya Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shivarahasya_Purana \"Shivarahasya Purana\")* *[Shiva Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva_Purana \"Shiva Purana\")* *[Shiva Sutras of Vasugupta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva_Sutras_of_Vasugupta \"Shiva Sutras of Vasugupta\")* *[Tirumurai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tirumurai \"Tirumurai\")* |   |\n| [Mantra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mantra \"Mantra\")\/[Stotra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Stotra \"Stotra\") | *[Om Namah Shivaya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Om_Namah_Shivaya \"Om Namah Shivaya\")* *[Rudrashtakam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rudrashtakam \"Rudrashtakam\")* *[Mahāmrityunjaya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mah%C4%81mrityunjaya_Mantra \"Mahāmrityunjaya Mantra\")* *[Shiva Tandava](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva_Tandava_Stotra \"Shiva Tandava Stotra\")* *[Sahasranama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva_Sahasranama \"Shiva Sahasranama\")* *[Chalisa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiv_Chalisa \"Shiv Chalisa\")* *[Shri Rudram](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shri_Rudram \"Shri Rudram\")* *[Shiva Mahimna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva_Mahimna_Stotra \"Shiva Mahimna Stotra\")* *[Hara Hara Mahadeva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hara_Hara_Mahadeva \"Hara Hara Mahadeva\")* |   |\n| Traditions | [Shaiva Siddhanta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaiva_Siddhanta \"Shaiva Siddhanta\") [Pashupata Shaivism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pashupata_Shaivism \"Pashupata Shaivism\") [Kapalika](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kapalika \"Kapalika\") [Aghori](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Aghori \"Aghori\") [Kaula](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kaula_\\(Hinduism\\) \"Kaula (Hinduism)\") [Trika Shaivism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Trika \"Trika\") [Veera Shaivism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lingayatism \"Lingayatism\") [Siddha Siddhanta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Siddha_Siddhanta \"Siddha Siddhanta\") [Shiva Advaita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva_Advaita \"Shiva Advaita\") [Shaiva Smartas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Smarta_tradition \"Smarta tradition\") |   |\n| Festivals and observances | [Kanwar Yatra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kanwar_Yatra \"Kanwar Yatra\") [Maha Shivaratri]() [Pradosha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pradosha \"Pradosha\") [Shiva Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva_Puja \"Shiva Puja\") |   |\n| [Shiva temples](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva_temple \"Shiva temple\") |   |   |\n|   |   |   |\n| [Panch Kedar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Panch_Kedar \"Panch Kedar\") | [Kedarnath](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kedarnath_Temple \"Kedarnath Temple\") [Tungnath](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tungnath \"Tungnath\") [Rudranath](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rudranath \"Rudranath\") [Madhyamaheshwar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Madhyamaheshwar \"Madhyamaheshwar\") [Kalpeshwar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kalpeshwar \"Kalpeshwar\") |   |\n| [Pancha Sabhai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pancha_Sabhai \"Pancha Sabhai\") | [Rathinam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sri_Vadaranyeswarar_Temple \"Sri Vadaranyeswarar Temple\") [Pon](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nataraja_Temple,_Chidambaram \"Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram\") [Velli](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Meenakshi_Temple \"Meenakshi Temple\") [Thamiram](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nellaiappar_Temple \"Nellaiappar Temple\") [Chitiram](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thirukutralam \"Thirukutralam\") |   |\n| [Pancha Bhuta Sthalam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pancha_Bhuta_Sthalam \"Pancha Bhuta Sthalam\") | [Chidambaram (Ether)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nataraja_Temple,_Chidambaram \"Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram\") [Tirukalahasti (Air)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Srikalahasteeswara_temple \"Srikalahasteeswara temple\") [Tiruvannamalai (Fire)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Arunachalesvara_Temple \"Arunachalesvara Temple\") [Tiruvanaikaval (Water)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jambukeswarar_Temple,_Thiruvanaikaval \"Jambukeswarar Temple, Thiruvanaikaval\") [Kanchipuram (Earth)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ekambareswarar_Temple_\\(Kanchipuram\\) \"Ekambareswarar Temple (Kanchipuram)\") |   |\n| [Jyotirlingas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jyotirlinga \"Jyotirlinga\") | [Bhimashankar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhimashankar_Temple \"Bhimashankar Temple\") [Grishneshwar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Grishneshwar_Temple \"Grishneshwar Temple\") [Kedarnath](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kedarnath_Temple \"Kedarnath Temple\") [Mallikarjun](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mallikarjuna_Jyotirlinga \"Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga\") [Mahakaleshwar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahakaleshwar_Jyotirlinga \"Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga\") [Nageshvar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nageshvara_Jyotirlinga \"Nageshvara Jyotirlinga\") [Omkareshwar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Omkareshwar_Temple \"Omkareshwar Temple\") [Ramanathaswamy](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramanathaswamy_Temple \"Ramanathaswamy Temple\") [Somnath](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Somnath_temple \"Somnath temple\") [Trimbakeshwar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Trimbakeshwar_Shiva_Temple \"Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple\") [Vaidyanath](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vaidyanath_Jyotirlinga \"Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga\") [Vishwanath](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kashi_Vishwanath_Temple \"Kashi Vishwanath Temple\") |   |\n| Others | [Amarnath](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Amarnath_Temple \"Amarnath Temple\") [Brihadeeswarar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brihadisvara_Temple,_Thanjavur \"Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur\") [Kailash Mansarovar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lake_Manasarovar \"Lake Manasarovar\") [Katas Raj](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Katas_Raj_Temples \"Katas Raj Temples\") [Lingaraja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lingaraja_Temple \"Lingaraja Temple\") [Meenakshi Sundareshwarar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Meenakshi_Temple \"Meenakshi Temple\") [Tiruchengode](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ardhanareeswarar_temple,_Tiruchengode \"Ardhanareeswarar temple, Tiruchengode\") [Vadakkum Nathan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vadakkunnathan_Temple \"Vadakkunnathan Temple\") |   |\n| Related topics | [Lingam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lingam \"Lingam\") [Rasalingam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rasalingam \"Rasalingam\") [Siddha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Siddha \"Siddha\") [Vibhuti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vibhuti \"Vibhuti\") [Other names](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva_Sahasranama \"Shiva Sahasranama\") |   |\n| ![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/9\/96\/Symbol_category_class.svg\/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png)[Category](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Shaivism \"Category:Shaivism\") [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/e\/e2\/Symbol_portal_class.svg\/20px-Symbol_portal_class.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Symbol_portal_class.svg \"Portal\")[Portal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Portal:Hinduism \"Portal:Hinduism\") |   |   |\n\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Shaktism \"Template:Shaktism\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Shaktism \"Template talk:Shaktism\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Shaktism \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Shaktism\")[Shaktism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaktism \"Shaktism\") |   |   |\n|---|---|---|\n| [History](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/History_of_Shaktism \"History of Shaktism\") |   |   |\n| [Devi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Devi \"Devi\") | [Mahadevi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahadevi \"Mahadevi\") [Saraswati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Saraswati \"Saraswati\") [Lakshmi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi \"Lakshmi\") [Parvati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Parvati \"Parvati\") [Sati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sati_\\(Hindu_goddess\\) \"Sati (Hindu goddess)\") [Shakti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shakti \"Shakti\") [Durga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Durga \"Durga\") [Navadurga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navadurga \"Navadurga\") [Mahakali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahakali \"Mahakali\") [Bhadrakali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhadrakali \"Bhadrakali\") [Radha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Radha \"Radha\") [Sita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sita \"Sita\") *[More](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Hindu_goddesses \"Category:Hindu goddesses\")* | [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/5\/56\/Debi_Durga_Sculpture_by_Sandalwood_Murshidabad_WB_30_01_2018.jpg\/120px-Debi_Durga_Sculpture_by_Sandalwood_Murshidabad_WB_30_01_2018.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Debi_Durga_Sculpture_by_Sandalwood_Murshidabad_WB_30_01_2018.jpg) |\n| [Matrikas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Matrikas \"Matrikas\") | [Brahmani](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brahmani_\\(Matrika\\) \"Brahmani (Matrika)\") [Maheshvari](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maheshvari \"Maheshvari\") [Kaumari](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kaumari \"Kaumari\") [Vaishnavi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vaishnavi_\\(Matrika_goddess\\) \"Vaishnavi (Matrika goddess)\") [Varahi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Varahi \"Varahi\") [Indrani](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indrani_\\(Matrika\\) \"Indrani (Matrika)\") [Chamunda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chamunda \"Chamunda\") |   |\n| [Mahavidya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahavidya \"Mahavidya\") | [Kali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kali \"Kali\") [Tara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tara_\\(Mahavidya\\) \"Tara (Mahavidya)\") [Tripura Sundari](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tripura_Sundari \"Tripura Sundari\") [Bhuvaneshvari](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhuvaneshvari \"Bhuvaneshvari\") [Bhairavi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhairavi \"Bhairavi\") [Chhinnamasta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chhinnamasta \"Chhinnamasta\") [Dhumavati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dhumavati \"Dhumavati\") [Bagalamukhi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bagalamukhi \"Bagalamukhi\") [Matangi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Matangi \"Matangi\") [Kamalatmika](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kamalatmika \"Kamalatmika\") |   |\n| [Navadurga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navadurga \"Navadurga\") | [Shailaputri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shailaputri \"Shailaputri\") [Brahmacharini](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brahmacharini \"Brahmacharini\") [Chandraghanta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chandraghanta \"Chandraghanta\") [Kushmanda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kushmanda \"Kushmanda\") [Skandamata](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Skandamata \"Skandamata\") [Katyayani](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Katyayani \"Katyayani\") [Kalaratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kalaratri \"Kalaratri\") [Mahagauri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahagauri \"Mahagauri\") [Siddhidhatri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Siddhidhatri \"Siddhidhatri\") |   |\n| [Shakta pithas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shakta_pithas \"Shakta pithas\") | [Bimala](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vimala_Temple \"Vimala Temple\") [Kalighat](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kalighat_Kali_Temple \"Kalighat Kali Temple\") [Kamakhya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kamakhya_Temple \"Kamakhya Temple\") [Taratarini](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Taratarini_Temple \"Taratarini Temple\") [Tulja Bhavani](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tulja_Bhavani_Temple \"Tulja Bhavani Temple\") [Mahalakshmi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahalakshmi_Temple,_Kolhapur \"Mahalakshmi Temple, Kolhapur\") *[More...](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Shakta_pithas \"Category:Shakta pithas\")* |   |\n| [Texts](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_texts \"Hindu texts\") | [Devi Mahatmya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Devi_Mahatmya \"Devi Mahatmya\") [Devi-Bhagavata Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Devi-Bhagavata_Purana \"Devi-Bhagavata Purana\") [Kalika Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kalika_Purana \"Kalika Purana\") [Shakta Upanishads](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shakta_Upanishads \"Shakta Upanishads\") [Sita Upanishad](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sita_Upanishad \"Sita Upanishad\") [Tripuratapini Upanishad](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tripuratapini_Upanishad \"Tripuratapini Upanishad\") [Devi Upanishad](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Devi_Upanishad \"Devi Upanishad\") [Tripura Upanishad](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tripura_Upanishad \"Tripura Upanishad\") [Bhavana Upanishad](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhavana_Upanishad \"Bhavana Upanishad\") [Saubhagyalakshmi Upanishad](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Saubhagyalakshmi_Upanishad \"Saubhagyalakshmi Upanishad\") [Sarasvati-rahasya Upanishad](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sarasvati-rahasya_Upanishad \"Sarasvati-rahasya Upanishad\") [Lalita Sahasranama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lalita_Sahasranama \"Lalita Sahasranama\") [Saundarya Lahari](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Saundarya_Lahari \"Saundarya Lahari\") |   |\n| Other Texts | [Abirami Antati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Abirami_Antati \"Abirami Antati\") |   |\n| Regional variations | [Caribbean Shaktism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Caribbean_Shaktism \"Caribbean Shaktism\") |   |\n| [Hinduism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism \"Hinduism\") [Tantra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tantra \"Tantra\") |   |   |\n\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Sindhi_festivals \"Template:Sindhi festivals\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Sindhi_festivals \"Template talk:Sindhi festivals\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Sindhi_festivals \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Sindhi festivals\")[Festivals in the Sindhi calendar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Sindhi_festivals \"List of Sindhi festivals\") |   |\n|---|---|\n| Major festivals | [Sindhi Cultural Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sindhi_Cultural_Day \"Sindhi Cultural Day\") [Lal Loi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lal_Loi \"Lal Loi\") [Makar Sankrant](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Makar_Sankranti \"Makar Sankranti\") [Basant Panchmi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vasant_Panchami \"Vasant Panchami\") [Shivratri]() [Holi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Holi \"Holi\") Dhudiyo Ram Navami Akhan Teej Chaliho Starts [Guru Purnima](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Purnima \"Guru Purnima\") Guru Purnima Gogio - Nag Panchmi Chaliho Ends Rakhadi Teejadi Thadadi [Krishna Janmashtami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Krishna_Janmashtami \"Krishna Janmashtami\") Janmashtami [Ganesh Chaturthi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganesh_Chaturthi \"Ganesh Chaturthi\") Shradh Starts Mahalaxmi \\[Sagido Chhodinin\\] Shradh Ends [Navratra Starts](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navratri \"Navratri\") [Navratra Ends](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navratri \"Navratri\") Dashero Dhan Teras Diyari - Laxmi Pooja Gop Ashtami Guru Nanak Jayanti Geeta Jayanti [Diyarri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali\") [Krishna Janmashtami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Krishna_Janmashtami \"Krishna Janmashtami\") [Maha Shivaratri]() [Makar Sankranti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Makar_Sankranti \"Makar Sankranti\") [Navratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navratri \"Navratri\") [Hanuman Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanuman_Jayanti \"Hanuman Jayanti\") |\n| [Sindhi New Year](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indian_New_Year%27s_days \"Indian New Year's days\") | [Chetri Chand](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Cheti_Chand \"Cheti Chand\") |\n| Literary Events | [Sindh Literature Festival](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sindh_Literature_Festival \"Sindh Literature Festival\") [Hyderabad Literary Festival](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hyderabad_Literature_Festival,_Pakistan \"Hyderabad Literature Festival, Pakistan\") |\n| Holy days | Sindhi Muslims Holidays [Eid al-Fitr](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Fitr \"Eid al-Fitr\") [Eid al-Adha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Adha \"Eid al-Adha\") |\n| Lists | [List of Sindhi festivals](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Sindhi_festivals \"List of Sindhi festivals\") |\n| ![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/9\/96\/Symbol_category_class.svg\/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png) [Sindhi Culture](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Sindhi_culture \"Category:Sindhi culture\") ![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/9\/96\/Symbol_category_class.svg\/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png) [Sindhi festivals](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Sindhi_festivals \"Category:Sindhi festivals\") ![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/9\/96\/Symbol_category_class.svg\/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png) [Sindhi Hindu festivals](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Hindu_festivals \"Category:Hindu festivals\") |   |\n\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Hindu_festivals \"Template:Hindu festivals\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Hindu_festivals \"Template talk:Hindu festivals\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Hindu_festivals \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Hindu festivals\")[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/b\/b7\/Om_symbol.svg\/20px-Om_symbol.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism \"Hinduism\") [Festivals in the Hindu calendar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Hindu_festivals \"List of Hindu festivals\") |   |\n|---|---|\n| Major festivals | [Ayudha Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ayudha_Puja \"Ayudha Puja\") [Chhath](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chhath \"Chhath\") [Diwali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali\") [Durga Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Durga_Puja \"Durga Puja\") [Ganesh Chaturthi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganesh_Chaturthi \"Ganesh Chaturthi\") [Holi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Holi \"Holi\") [Krishna Janmashtami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Krishna_Janmashtami \"Krishna Janmashtami\") [Maha Shivaratri]() [Navaratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navaratri \"Navaratri\") [Rama Navami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rama_Navami \"Rama Navami\") [Thaipusam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thaipusam \"Thaipusam\") [Vijayadashami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vijayadashami \"Vijayadashami\") |\n| [Harvest festivals](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Harvest_festival \"Harvest festival\") | [Bandna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bandna \"Bandna\") [Bhogi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhogi \"Bhogi\") [Lohri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lohri \"Lohri\") [Maghi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maghi \"Maghi\") [Maghe Sankranti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maghe_Sankranti \"Maghe Sankranti\") [Makar Sankranti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Makar_Sankranti \"Makar Sankranti\") [Onam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Onam \"Onam\") [Pongal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pongal_\\(festival\\) \"Pongal (festival)\") [Kaanum Pongal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kaanum_Pongal \"Kaanum Pongal\") [Mattu Pongal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mattu_Pongal \"Mattu Pongal\") [Pusnâ](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pusn%C3%A2 \"Pusnâ\") [Sohrai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sohrai \"Sohrai\") |\n| [New year's days](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indian_New_Year%27s_days \"Indian New Year's days\") | [Balipratipada](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Balipratipada \"Balipratipada\") [Bohag Bihu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bohag_Bihu \"Bohag Bihu\") [Bisu Parba](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bisu_Parba \"Bisu Parba\") [Chaitra Navaratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navaratri#Chaitra_Navaratri \"Navaratri\") [Cheti Chand](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Cheti_Chand \"Cheti Chand\") [Gudi Padwa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gudi_Padwa \"Gudi Padwa\") [Mesha Sankranti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mesha_Sankranti \"Mesha Sankranti\") [Mha Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mha_Puja \"Mha Puja\") [Jur Sital](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jur_Sital \"Jur Sital\") [Navreh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navreh \"Navreh\") [Nyepi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nyepi \"Nyepi\") [Maha Bishuba Sankranti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Bishuba_Sankranti \"Maha Bishuba Sankranti\") [Pahela Baishakh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pahela_Baishakh \"Pahela Baishakh\") [Puthandu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puthandu \"Puthandu\") [Sajibu Nongma Panba](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sajibu_Nongma_Panba \"Sajibu Nongma Panba\") [Sankranti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sankranti \"Sankranti\") [Ugadi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ugadi \"Ugadi\") [Vaisakhi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vaisakhi \"Vaisakhi\") [Vishu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishu \"Vishu\") |\n| Other festivals | [Aadi Perukku](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Aadi_Perukku \"Aadi Perukku\") [Balipratipada](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Balipratipada \"Balipratipada\") [Bhai Dooj](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhai_Dooj \"Bhai Dooj\") [Datta Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Datta_Jayanti \"Datta Jayanti\") [Dhanteras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dhanteras \"Dhanteras\") [Gaura Parva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gaura_\\(festival\\) \"Gaura (festival)\") [Govardhan Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Govardhan_Puja \"Govardhan Puja\") [Gowri Habba](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gowri_Habba \"Gowri Habba\") [Hanuman Jayanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanuman_Jayanti \"Hanuman Jayanti\") [Kali Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kali_Puja \"Kali Puja\") [Karthika Deepam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Karthika_Deepam \"Karthika Deepam\") [Karva Chauth](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Karva_Chauth \"Karva Chauth\") [Kashmiri Hindu festivals](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kashmiri_Hindu_festivals \"Kashmiri Hindu festivals\") [Lakshmi Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi_Puja \"Lakshmi Puja\") [Kumbh Mela](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kumbh_Mela \"Kumbh Mela\") [Mahalakshmi Vrata](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahalakshmi_Vrata \"Mahalakshmi Vrata\") [Mahamaham](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahamaham \"Mahamaham\") [Mha Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mha_Puja \"Mha Puja\") [Panguni Uthiram](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Panguni_Uthiram \"Panguni Uthiram\") [Pargat Diwas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pargat_Diwas \"Pargat Diwas\") [Raksha Bandhan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Raksha_Bandhan \"Raksha Bandhan\") [Ratha-Yatra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ratha-Yatra \"Ratha-Yatra\") [Savitri Vrata](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Savitri_Vrata \"Savitri Vrata\") [Surasamharam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Surasamharam \"Surasamharam\") [Swanti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Swanti_\\(festival\\) \"Swanti (festival)\") [Teej](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Teej \"Teej\") [Tihar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tihar_\\(festival\\) \"Tihar (festival)\") [Kukur Tihar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kukur_Tihar \"Kukur Tihar\") [Thiruvathira](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thiruvathira \"Thiruvathira\") [Tulasi Vivaha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tulasi_Vivaha \"Tulasi Vivaha\") [Vaikasi Visakam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vaikasi_Visakam \"Vaikasi Visakam\") [Vishwakarma Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishwakarma_Puja \"Vishwakarma Puja\") |\n| Holy days | [Akshaya Tritiya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Akshaya_Tritiya \"Akshaya Tritiya\") [Amalaka Ekadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Amalaka_Ekadashi \"Amalaka Ekadashi\") [Amavasya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Amavasya \"Amavasya\") [Ananta Chaturdashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ananta_Chaturdashi \"Ananta Chaturdashi\") [Ashadhi Ekadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ashadhi_Ekadashi \"Ashadhi Ekadashi\") [Guru Purnima](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guru_Purnima \"Guru Purnima\") [Kamada Ekadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kamada_Ekadashi \"Kamada Ekadashi\") [Kartik Purnima](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kartik_Purnima \"Kartik Purnima\") [Naga Panchami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Naga_Panchami \"Naga Panchami\") [Naraka Chaturdashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Naraka_Chaturdashi \"Naraka Chaturdashi\") [Narali Purnima](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Narali_Purnima \"Narali Purnima\") [Nirjala Ekadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nirjala_Ekadashi \"Nirjala Ekadashi\") [Pausha Putrada Ekadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pausha_Putrada_Ekadashi \"Pausha Putrada Ekadashi\") [Prabodhini Ekadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Prabodhini_Ekadashi \"Prabodhini Ekadashi\") [Pradosha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pradosha \"Pradosha\") [Rishi Panchami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rishi_Panchami \"Rishi Panchami\") [Sankashti Chaturthi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sankashti_Chaturthi \"Sankashti Chaturthi\") [Sharad Purnima](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sharad_Purnima \"Sharad Purnima\") [Shayani Ekadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shayani_Ekadashi \"Shayani Ekadashi\") [Shravana Putrada Ekadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shravana_Putrada_Ekadashi \"Shravana Putrada Ekadashi\") [Vaikuntha Ekadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vaikuntha_Ekadashi \"Vaikuntha Ekadashi\") [Varuthini Ekadashi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Varuthini_Ekadashi \"Varuthini Ekadashi\") [Vasant Panchami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vasant_Panchami \"Vasant Panchami\") [Vat Purnima](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vat_Purnima \"Vat Purnima\") |\n| [Balinese festivals](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Balinese_people \"Balinese people\") | [Galungan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Galungan \"Galungan\") [Nyepi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nyepi \"Nyepi\") |\n| Holy periods | [Chaturmasya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chaturmasya \"Chaturmasya\") [Dakshinayana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dakshinayana \"Dakshinayana\") [Pitru Paksha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pitru_Paksha \"Pitru Paksha\") [Uttarayana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Uttarayana \"Uttarayana\") |\n| ![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/9\/96\/Symbol_category_class.svg\/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png) **[Hindu festivals](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Hindu_festivals \"Category:Hindu festivals\")** |   |\n\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Hindudharma \"Template:Hindudharma\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Hindudharma \"Template talk:Hindudharma\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Hindudharma \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Hindudharma\")[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/6\/67\/Aum_Om_red.svg\/20px-Aum_Om_red.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Aum \"Aum\") [Hinduism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism \"Hinduism\") [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/6\/63\/HinduSwastika.svg\/20px-HinduSwastika.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:HinduSwastika.svg) topics |   |   |\n|---|---|---|\n| [Glossary](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Glossary_of_Hinduism_terms \"Glossary of Hinduism terms\") Index [Timeline](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Timeline_of_Hinduism \"Timeline of Hinduism\") |   |   |\n| [Philosophy](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_philosophy \"Hindu philosophy\") |   | ![Hindu \"Om\" symbol](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/6\/69\/Aum_Om_navy_blue_circle_hollow_coral.svg\/120px-Aum_Om_navy_blue_circle_hollow_coral.svg.png) |\n|   |   |   |\n| [Concepts](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Glossary_of_Hinduism_terms \"Glossary of Hinduism terms\") | [Brahman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brahman \"Brahman\") [Om](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Om \"Om\") [Ishvara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ishvara \"Ishvara\") [Atman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%C4%80tman_\\(Hinduism\\) \"Ātman (Hinduism)\") [Maya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maya_\\(religion\\) \"Maya (religion)\") [Karma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Karma \"Karma\") [Saṃsāra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sa%E1%B9%83s%C4%81ra \"Saṃsāra\") [Puruṣārthas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puru%E1%B9%A3%C4%81rtha \"Puruṣārtha\") [Dharma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dharma \"Dharma\") [Artha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Artha \"Artha\") [Kama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kama \"Kama\") [Moksha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Moksha \"Moksha\") [Niti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ethics_in_religion#Hindu_ethics \"Ethics in religion\") [Ahimsa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ahimsa \"Ahimsa\") [Asteya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Achourya \"Achourya\") [Aparigraha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Aparigraha \"Aparigraha\") [Brahmacharya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brahmacarya \"Brahmacarya\") [Satya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Satya \"Satya\") [Dāna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/D%C4%81na \"Dāna\") [Damah](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Temperance_\\(virtue\\)#Hinduism \"Temperance (virtue)\") [Dayā](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Compassion#Hinduism \"Compassion\") [Akrodha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Akrodha \"Akrodha\") |   |\n| [Schools](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_philosophy \"Hindu philosophy\") | [Āstika](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%C4%80stika_and_n%C4%81stika \"Āstika and nāstika\"): [Samkhya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Samkhya \"Samkhya\") [Yoga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yoga \"Yoga\") [Nyaya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nyaya \"Nyaya\") [Vaisheshika](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vaisheshika \"Vaisheshika\") [Mīmāṃsā](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/M%C4%ABm%C4%81%E1%B9%83s%C4%81 \"Mīmāṃsā\") [Vedanta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vedanta \"Vedanta\") *[Svābhāvika Bhedābheda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sv%C4%81bh%C4%81vika_Bhed%C4%81bheda \"Svābhāvika Bhedābheda\")* *[Dvaita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dvaita_Vedanta \"Dvaita Vedanta\")* *[Advaita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Advaita_Vedanta \"Advaita Vedanta\")* *[Vishishtadvaita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishishtadvaita \"Vishishtadvaita\")* [Nāstika](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%C4%80stika_and_n%C4%81stika \"Āstika and nāstika\"): [Charvaka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Charvaka \"Charvaka\") |   |\n| [Texts](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_texts \"Hindu texts\") |   |   |\n|   |   |   |\n| Classification | [Śruti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%C5%9Aruti \"Śruti\") [Smṛti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sm%E1%B9%9Bti \"Smṛti\") |   |\n| [Vedas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vedas \"Vedas\") |   |   |\n|   |   |   |\n| [Rigveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rigveda \"Rigveda\") [Yajurveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yajurveda \"Yajurveda\") [Samaveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Samaveda \"Samaveda\") [Atharvaveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Atharvaveda \"Atharvaveda\") |   |   |\n| Divisions | [Samhita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vedic_chant \"Vedic chant\") [Brahmana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brahmana \"Brahmana\") [Aranyaka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Aranyaka \"Aranyaka\") |   |\n| [Upanishads](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Upanishads \"Upanishads\") | [Aitareya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Aitareya_Upanishad \"Aitareya Upanishad\") [Kaushitaki](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kaushitaki_Upanishad \"Kaushitaki Upanishad\") [Brihadaranyaka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brihadaranyaka_Upanishad \"Brihadaranyaka Upanishad\") [Isha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Isha_Upanishad \"Isha Upanishad\") [Taittiriya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Taittiriya_Upanishad \"Taittiriya Upanishad\") [Katha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Katha_Upanishad \"Katha Upanishad\") [Maitrayaniya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maitrayaniya_Upanishad \"Maitrayaniya Upanishad\") [Shvetashvatara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shvetashvatara_Upanishad \"Shvetashvatara Upanishad\") [Chandogya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chandogya_Upanishad \"Chandogya Upanishad\") [Kena](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kena_Upanishad \"Kena Upanishad\") [Mundaka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mundaka_Upanishad \"Mundaka Upanishad\") [Mandukya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mandukya_Upanishad \"Mandukya Upanishad\") [Prashna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Prashna_Upanishad \"Prashna Upanishad\") |   |\n| [Upavedas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Upaveda \"Upaveda\") | [Ayurveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ayurveda \"Ayurveda\") [Dhanurveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indian_martial_arts \"Indian martial arts\") [Natyaveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Natya_Shastra \"Natya Shastra\") [Sthapatyaveda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_temple_architecture \"Hindu temple architecture\") |   |\n| [Vedanga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vedanga \"Vedanga\") | [Shiksha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiksha \"Shiksha\") [Chandas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sanskrit_prosody \"Sanskrit prosody\") [Vyākaraṇa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vy%C4%81kara%E1%B9%87a \"Vyākaraṇa\") [Nirukta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nirukta \"Nirukta\") [Kalpa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kalpa_\\(Vedanga\\) \"Kalpa (Vedanga)\") [Jyotisha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jyotisha \"Jyotisha\") |   |\n| [Other](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Hindu_texts \"List of Hindu texts\") | [Bhagavad Gita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhagavad_Gita \"Bhagavad Gita\") [Agamas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Agama_\\(Hinduism\\) \"Agama (Hinduism)\") [Itihasas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Itihasa-Purana \"Itihasa-Purana\") [Ramayana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramayana \"Ramayana\") [Mahabharata](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahabharata \"Mahabharata\") [Puranas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puranas \"Puranas\") [Minor Upanishads](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Upanishads#Classification \"Upanishads\") [Arthashastra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Arthashastra \"Arthashastra\") [Nitisara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nitisara \"Nitisara\") [Dharmaśāstra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dharma%C5%9B%C4%81stra \"Dharmaśāstra\") [Manusmriti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Manusmriti \"Manusmriti\") [Nāradasmṛti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/N%C4%81radasm%E1%B9%9Bti \"Nāradasmṛti\") [Yājñavalkya Smṛti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Y%C4%81j%C3%B1avalkya_Sm%E1%B9%9Bti \"Yājñavalkya Smṛti\") [Sutras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sutra \"Sutra\") [Stotras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Stotra \"Stotra\") [Subhashita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Subhashita \"Subhashita\") [Tantras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tantras_\\(Hinduism\\) \"Tantras (Hinduism)\") [Yoga Vasistha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yoga_Vasistha \"Yoga Vasistha\") *[Yoga Sutras of Patanjali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yoga_Sutras_of_Patanjali \"Yoga Sutras of Patanjali\")* |   |\n| [Sangam literature](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sangam_literature \"Sangam literature\") | [Tirumurai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tirumurai \"Tirumurai\") [Divya Prabandham](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Divya_Prabandham \"Divya Prabandham\") [Tirumurukāṟṟuppaṭai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tirumuruk%C4%81%E1%B9%9F%E1%B9%9Fuppa%E1%B9%ADai \"Tirumurukāṟṟuppaṭai\") [Thiruppugal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thiruppugal \"Thiruppugal\") [Thirukkural](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thirukkural \"Thirukkural\") [Kamba Ramayanam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kamba_Ramayanam \"Kamba Ramayanam\") [Five Great Epics](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Five_Great_Epics \"Five Great Epics\") [Eighteen Greater Texts](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eighteen_Greater_Texts \"Eighteen Greater Texts\") [Eighteen Lesser Texts](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eighteen_Lesser_Texts \"Eighteen Lesser Texts\") [Athichudi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Athichudi \"Athichudi\") [Iraiyanar Akapporul](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Iraiyanar_Akapporul \"Iraiyanar Akapporul\") [Abhirami Antati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Abhirami_Antati \"Abhirami Antati\") [Thiruvilaiyadal Puranam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thiruvilaiyadal_Puranam \"Thiruvilaiyadal Puranam\") [Vinayagar Agaval](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vinayagar_Agaval \"Vinayagar Agaval\") [Vedarthasamgraha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vedarthasamgraha \"Vedarthasamgraha\") |   |\n| [Deities](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_deities \"Hindu deities\") |   |   |\n|   |   |   |\n| [Gods](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Deva_\\(Hinduism\\) \"Deva (Hinduism)\") | [Trimurti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Trimurti \"Trimurti\") [Brahma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brahma \"Brahma\") [Vishnu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishnu \"Vishnu\") [Shiva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva \"Shiva\") [Agni](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Agni \"Agni\") [Dattatreya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dattatreya \"Dattatreya\") [Ganesha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganesha \"Ganesha\") [Hanuman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanuman \"Hanuman\") [Indra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indra \"Indra\") [Kartikeya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kartikeya \"Kartikeya\") [Krishna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Krishna \"Krishna\") [Rama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rama \"Rama\") [Surya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Surya \"Surya\") [Varuna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Varuna \"Varuna\") [Vayu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vayu \"Vayu\") [*more*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Hindu_gods \"Category:Hindu gods\") |   |\n| [Goddesses](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Devi \"Devi\") | [Tridevi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tridevi \"Tridevi\") [Saraswati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Saraswati \"Saraswati\") [Lakshmi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakshmi \"Lakshmi\") [Parvati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Parvati \"Parvati\") [Bhumi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhumi_\\(goddess\\) \"Bhumi (goddess)\") [Durga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Durga \"Durga\") [Kali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kali \"Kali\") [Mahavidya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mahavidya \"Mahavidya\") [Matrika](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Matrika \"Matrika\") [Radha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Radha \"Radha\") [Rukmini](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rukmini \"Rukmini\") [Sati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sati_\\(Hindu_goddess\\) \"Sati (Hindu goddess)\") [Shakti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shakti \"Shakti\") [Shashthi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shashthi \"Shashthi\") [Sita](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sita \"Sita\") [*more*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Hindu_goddesses \"Category:Hindu goddesses\") |   |\n| Practices |   |   |\n|   |   |   |\n| [Worship](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Worship_in_Hinduism \"Worship in Hinduism\") | [Temple](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_temple \"Hindu temple\") [Murti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Murti \"Murti\") [Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puja_\\(Hinduism\\) \"Puja (Hinduism)\") [Bhakti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhakti \"Bhakti\") [Japa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Japa \"Japa\") [Bhajan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhajan \"Bhajan\") [Naivedhya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Naivedhya \"Naivedhya\") [Yajna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yajna \"Yajna\") [Homa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Homa_\\(ritual\\) \"Homa (ritual)\") [Tapas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tapas_\\(Indian_religions\\) \"Tapas (Indian religions)\") [Dhyāna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dhy%C4%81na_in_Hinduism \"Dhyāna in Hinduism\") [Tirthatana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_pilgrimage_sites_in_India \"Hindu pilgrimage sites in India\") |   |\n| [Sanskaras](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sanskara_\\(rite_of_passage\\) \"Sanskara (rite of passage)\") | [Garbhadhana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Garbhadhana \"Garbhadhana\") [Pumsavana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pumsavana \"Pumsavana\") [Simantonayana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pumsavana_Simantonayana \"Pumsavana Simantonayana\") [Jatakarma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jatakarma \"Jatakarma\") [Namakarana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/N%C4%81makara%E1%B9%87a \"Nāmakaraṇa\") [Nishkramana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nishkramana \"Nishkramana\") [Annaprashana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Annaprashana \"Annaprashana\") [Chudakarana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chudakarana \"Chudakarana\") [Karnavedha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Karnavedha \"Karnavedha\") [Vidyarambha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vidy%C4%81ra%E1%B9%83bha%E1%B9%83 \"Vidyāraṃbhaṃ\") [Upanayana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Upanayana \"Upanayana\") [Keshanta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Keshanta \"Keshanta\") [Ritushuddhi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ritu_Kala_Samskaram \"Ritu Kala Samskaram\") [Samavartanam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Samavartanam \"Samavartanam\") [Vivaha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vivaah \"Vivaah\") [Antyeshti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Antyesti \"Antyesti\") |   |\n| Varnashrama | [Varna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Varna_\\(Hinduism\\) \"Varna (Hinduism)\") [Brahmin](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brahmin \"Brahmin\") [Kshatriya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kshatriya \"Kshatriya\") [Vaishya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vaishya \"Vaishya\") [Shudra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shudra \"Shudra\") [Ashrama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ashrama_\\(stage\\) \"Ashrama (stage)\") [Brahmacharya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brahmacarya \"Brahmacarya\") [Grihastha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Grihastha \"Grihastha\") [Vanaprastha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vanaprastha \"Vanaprastha\") [Sannyasa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sannyasa \"Sannyasa\") |   |\n| [Festivals](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Hindu_festivals \"List of Hindu festivals\") | [Diwali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali\") [Holi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Holi \"Holi\") [Shivaratri]() [Raksha Bandhan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Raksha_Bandhan \"Raksha Bandhan\") [Navaratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navaratri \"Navaratri\") [Durga Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Durga_Puja \"Durga Puja\") [Ramlila](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ramlila \"Ramlila\") [Vijayadashami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vijayadashami \"Vijayadashami\") [Ganesh Chaturthi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganesh_Chaturthi \"Ganesh Chaturthi\") [Rama Navami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rama_Navami \"Rama Navami\") [Janmashtami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Krishna_Janmashtami \"Krishna Janmashtami\") [Onam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Onam \"Onam\") [Pongal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pongal_\\(festival\\) \"Pongal (festival)\") [Makar Sankranti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Makar_Sankranti \"Makar Sankranti\") New Year [Bihu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bihu \"Bihu\") [Gudi Padwa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gudi_Padwa \"Gudi Padwa\") [Pahela Baishakh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pahela_Baishakh \"Pahela Baishakh\") [Puthandu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puthandu \"Puthandu\") [Vaisakhi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vaisakhi \"Vaisakhi\") [Vishu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vishu \"Vishu\") [Ugadi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ugadi \"Ugadi\") [Kumbh Mela](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kumbh_Mela \"Kumbh Mela\") [Haridwar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Haridwar_Kumbh_Mela \"Haridwar Kumbh Mela\") [Nashik](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nashik-Trimbakeshwar_Simhastha \"Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha\") [Prayag](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Prayag_Kumbh_Mela \"Prayag Kumbh Mela\") [Ujjain](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ujjain_Simhastha \"Ujjain Simhastha\") [Ratha Yatra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ratha_Yatra_\\(Puri\\) \"Ratha Yatra (Puri)\") [Teej](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Teej \"Teej\") [Vasant Panchami](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vasant_Panchami \"Vasant Panchami\") [Others](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Hindu_festivals \"Template:Hindu festivals\") |   |\n| Other | [Svādhyāya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sv%C4%81dhy%C4%81ya \"Svādhyāya\") [Namaste](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Namaste \"Namaste\") [Bindi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi_\\(decoration\\) \"Bindi (decoration)\") [Tilaka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tilaka \"Tilaka\") |   |\n| [Related](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Portal:Hinduism \"Portal:Hinduism\") | [Hindus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindus \"Hindus\") [Etymology](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindus#Etymology \"Hindus\") [List](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lists_of_Hindus \"Lists of Hindus\") [Denominations](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_denominations \"Hindu denominations\") [Law](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_law \"Hindu law\") [Calendar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar \"Hindu calendar\") [Anti-Hindu sentiment](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Anti-Hindu_sentiment \"Anti-Hindu sentiment\") [Criticism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Criticism_of_Hinduism \"Criticism of Hinduism\") [Hindu gurus and sants](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_Hindu_gurus_and_sants \"List of Hindu gurus and sants\") [Hindu studies](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_studies \"Hindu studies\") [Iconography](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_iconography \"Hindu iconography\") [Mythology](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_mythology \"Hindu mythology\") [Nationalism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_nationalism \"Hindu nationalism\") [Hindutva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindutva \"Hindutva\") [Persecution](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Persecution_of_Hindus \"Persecution of Hindus\") [Pilgrimage sites](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_pilgrimage_sites \"Hindu pilgrimage sites\") [Bahi registers](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bahi_genealogy_registers \"Bahi genealogy registers\") [India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_pilgrimage_sites_in_India \"Hindu pilgrimage sites in India\") [Relations with other religions](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_and_other_religions \"Hinduism and other religions\") [Baháʼí](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bah%C3%A1%CA%BC%C3%AD_Faith_and_Hinduism \"Baháʼí Faith and Hinduism\") [Buddhism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Buddhism_and_Hinduism \"Buddhism and Hinduism\") [Islam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu%E2%80%93Islamic_relations \"Hindu–Islamic relations\") [Jainism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jainism_and_Hinduism \"Jainism and Hinduism\") [Judaism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_and_Judaism \"Hinduism and Judaism\") [Sikhism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_and_Sikhism \"Hinduism and Sikhism\") [Theosophy](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_and_Theosophy \"Hinduism and Theosophy\") [Glossary](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Glossary_of_Hinduism_terms \"Glossary of Hinduism terms\") [Hinduism by country](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_by_country \"Hinduism by country\") [Hindu temples](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_temples \"Hindu temples\") [Lists](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lists_of_Hindu_temples \"Lists of Hindu temples\") [Architecture](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_temple_architecture \"Hindu temple architecture\") |   |\n| ![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/4\/41\/Global_thinking.svg\/20px-Global_thinking.svg.png) [Outline](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Outline_of_Hinduism \"Outline of Hinduism\") ![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/9\/96\/Symbol_category_class.svg\/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png) [Category](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Hinduism \"Category:Hinduism\") [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/e\/e2\/Symbol_portal_class.svg\/20px-Symbol_portal_class.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Symbol_portal_class.svg \"Portal\") [Portal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Portal:Hinduism \"Portal:Hinduism\") ![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/3\/37\/People_icon.svg\/20px-People_icon.svg.png) [WikiProject](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:WikiProject_Hinduism \"Wikipedia:WikiProject Hinduism\") |   |   |\n\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Public_holidays_in_Sri_Lanka \"Template:Public holidays in Sri Lanka\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Public_holidays_in_Sri_Lanka \"Template talk:Public holidays in Sri Lanka\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Public_holidays_in_Sri_Lanka \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Public holidays in Sri Lanka\")![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/1\/11\/Flag_of_Sri_Lanka.svg\/40px-Flag_of_Sri_Lanka.svg.png) [Public holidays in Sri Lanka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Public_holidays_in_Sri_Lanka \"Public holidays in Sri Lanka\") |   |\n|---|---|\n| Jan–Mar | [Thai Pongal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thai_Pongal \"Thai Pongal\") [Duruthu Poya Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Duruthu_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Duruthu Poya Day (page does not exist)\") [Independence Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Independence_Day_\\(Sri_Lanka\\) \"Independence Day (Sri Lanka)\") [Navam Poya Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Navam_Poya_Day \"Navam Poya Day\") [Maha Shivratri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivratri \"Maha Shivratri\") [Madin Poya Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Madin_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Madin Poya Day (page does not exist)\") |\n| Apr–Jun | Sinhala and Tamil New Year Day eve [Sinhalese New Year](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sinhalese_New_Year \"Sinhalese New Year\")\/[Tamil New Year](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tamil_New_Year \"Tamil New Year\") [Bak Poya Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bak_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Bak Poya Day (page does not exist)\") [Good Friday](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Good_Friday \"Good Friday\") [May Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/International_Workers%27_Day \"International Workers' Day\") [Vesak Poya Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vesak \"Vesak\") Day following Vesak Poya Day [Id-Ul-Fitr (Ramazan Festival Day)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Fitr \"Eid al-Fitr\") [Poson](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Poson \"Poson\") |\n| Jul–Sep | [Esala Poya Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Esala_Poya_Day \"Esala Poya Day\") [Id-Ul-Alha (Hadji Festival Day)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Adha \"Eid al-Adha\") [Nikini Poya Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Nikini_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Nikini Poya Day (page does not exist)\") [Binara Poya Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Binara_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Binara Poya Day (page does not exist)\") |\n| Oct–Dec | [Vap Poya Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Vap_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Vap Poya Day (page does not exist)\") [Deepavali Festival Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diwali \"Diwali\") [Milad-Un-Nabi (Holy Prophet’s Birthday)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mawlid \"Mawlid\") [Ill Poya Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Ill_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Ill Poya Day (page does not exist)\") [Unduvap Poya Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Unduvap_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 \"Unduvap Poya Day (page does not exist)\") [Christmas Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Christmas \"Christmas\") |\n\n|   |   |\n|---|---|\n| [Authority control databases](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Help:Authority_control \"Help:Authority control\"): National [![Edit this at Wikidata](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/8\/8a\/OOjs_UI_icon_edit-ltr-progressive.svg\/20px-OOjs_UI_icon_edit-ltr-progressive.svg.png)](https:\/\/www.wikidata.org\/wiki\/Q848070#identifiers \"Edit this at Wikidata\") | [United States](https:\/\/id.loc.gov\/authorities\/sh2017004251) [Israel](https:\/\/www.nli.org.il\/en\/authorities\/987007407690405171) 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Wikipedia® is a registered trademark of the [Wikimedia Foundation, Inc.](https:\/\/wikimediafoundation.org\/), a non-profit organization.\n\n- [Privacy policy](https:\/\/foundation.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Special:MyLanguage\/Policy:Privacy_policy)\n- [About Wikipedia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:About)\n- [Disclaimers](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:General_disclaimer)\n- [Contact Wikipedia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:Contact_us)\n- [Legal & safety contacts](https:\/\/foundation.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Special:MyLanguage\/Legal:Wikimedia_Foundation_Legal_and_Safety_Contact_Information)\n- [Code of Conduct](https:\/\/foundation.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Special:MyLanguage\/Policy:Universal_Code_of_Conduct)\n- [Developers](https:\/\/developer.wikimedia.org\/)\n- [Statistics](https:\/\/stats.wikimedia.org\/#\/en.wikipedia.org)\n- [Cookie statement](https:\/\/foundation.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Special:MyLanguage\/Policy:Cookie_statement)\n- [Mobile view](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&mobileaction=toggle_view_mobile)\n\n- [![Wikimedia Foundation](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/static\/images\/footer\/wikimedia.svg)](https:\/\/www.wikimedia.org\/)\n- [![Powered by MediaWiki](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/resources\/assets\/mediawiki_compact.svg)](https:\/\/www.mediawiki.org\/)\n\nSearch\n\nToggle the table of contents\n\nMaha Shivaratri\n\n49 languages\n\n[Add topic](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri)","attrs_readable_markdown":"| Maha Shivaratri |   |\n|---|---|\n| [![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/0\/09\/02_Mahashivratree_festival.JPG\/250px-02_Mahashivratree_festival.JPG)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:02_Mahashivratree_festival.JPG)Meditating Shiva statue on Maha-Shivaratri |   |\n| Observed by | [Hindus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindus \"Hindus\") |\n| Type | Religious |\n| Significance | Commemoration of the wedding of Shiva and Parvati  Veneration of the Tandava dance of Shiva Manifestation of the lingam[\\[1\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-SK-1) |\n| Observances | Fasting Self-study [Jagarana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jagran \"Jagran\") [Lingam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lingam \"Lingam\") [puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puja_\\(Hinduism\\) \"Puja (Hinduism)\") [Yoga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yoga \"Yoga\")[\\[2\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-Melton2011p541-2) |\n| Date | Maha Krishna Chaturdashi |\n| 2026 date | 15 February (Sunday)[\\[3\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-3) |\n| Frequency | Annual |\n\n| Explanatory note on Hindu festival dates |\n|---|\n| The [Hindu calendar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar \"Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar\") is lunisolar but most festival dates are specified using the lunar portion of the calendar. A lunar day is uniquely identified by three calendar elements: [*māsa*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#chandramasa \"Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar\") (lunar month), [*pakṣa*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#paksha \"Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar\") (lunar fortnight) and [*tithi*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#tithi \"Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar\") (lunar day). Furthermore, when specifying the masa, one of two traditions are applicable, viz. [*amānta*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar#amanta \"Hindu calendar\") \/ [*pūrṇimānta*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar#purnimanta \"Hindu calendar\"). If a festival falls in the waning phase of the moon, these two traditions identify the same lunar day as falling in two different (but successive) masa. A lunar year is shorter than a solar year by about eleven days. As a result, most Hindu festivals occur on different days in successive years on the Gregorian calendar. |\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Hindu_festival_date_info \"Template:Hindu festival date info\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Hindu_festival_date_info \"Template talk:Hindu festival date info\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Hindu_festival_date_info \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Hindu festival date info\") |\n\n**Maha Shivaratri** is a [Hindu festival](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_festival \"Hindu festival\") celebrated annually to worship the deity [Shiva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva \"Shiva\"), between February and March.[\\[4\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-:0-4) According to the [Hindu calendar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindu_calendar \"Hindu calendar\"), The festival is observed on the chaturdashi (14th lunar day) of krishna paksha (waning moon) of the month of Magha or Phalguna.[\\[4\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-:0-4)[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-JonesRyan2006p269-5) The month may vary from month of magh or Phalguna as per Purnimata and Amanta Calendar but is observed on the same lunar night across the regions. The festival commemorates the marriage of Shiva and [Parvati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Parvati \"Parvati\"),[\\[6\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-6) and the occasion of Shiva performing his [ritual dance](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sacred_dance \"Sacred dance\") called [tandava](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tandava \"Tandava\").[\\[7\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-Dhoraisingam35-7)[\\[8\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-auto1-8)\n\nIt is a notable festival in [Hinduism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism \"Hinduism\"), marking a remembrance of \"overcoming darkness and ignorance\" in life and the world. It is observed by remembering Shiva and chanting prayers, [fasting](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vrata \"Vrata\"), and meditating on ethics and virtues such as honesty, non-injury to others, charity, forgiveness, and the discovery of Shiva.[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-JonesRyan2006p269-5) Ardent devotees stay awake throughout this night. Others visit one of the [Shiva temples](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva \"Shiva\") or go on a pilgrimage to the [Jyotirlingams](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jyotirlingam \"Jyotirlingam\"). The festival is believed to have originated in 5th century BCE.[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-JonesRyan2006p269-5)\n\nIn [Kashmir Shaivism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kashmir_Shaivism \"Kashmir Shaivism\"), the festival is called Har-ratri or phonetically simpler Haerath or Herath by Shiva devotees of the Kashmir region.[\\[9\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-brunn402-9)[\\[10\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-maitra125-10)\n\nThe term Maha Shivaratri is a compound of three Sanskrit elements: *maha (महा) meaning* \"great\", Shiva (शिव), the Hindu deity, and ratri (रात्रि), meaning \"night\". The literal meaning is \"the Great Night of Shiva.\" The festival is observed annually on the *krishna paksha* (waning moon) *chaturdashi* (14th lunar day) of the month of [Magha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Magha_\\(month\\) \"Magha (month)\") or [Phalguna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Phalguna \"Phalguna\")[\\[11\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-11) In the *Amanta* lunar calendar, where a lunar month ends on the new moon day (*Amavasiya*), the date falls in the month of Magha. In the *Purnimanta* lunar calendar, where a lunar month ends on the full moon day (*Purnima*), the same lunar day of Maha Shivaratri is reckoned as occurring in Phalguna. Despite the difference in month name, the festival is observed on the same lunar night across India.[\\[12\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-12)[\\[13\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-13)\n\nIn [Kashmir](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kashmir \"Kashmir\"), Shivaratri is referred to as Herath (Kashmiri: हेरथ \/ ہیرَتھ). The name is commonly understood to derive from \"Har Ratri\" (\"Night of Hara\"), Hara being a name of Shiva. In the Kashmiri Pandit tradition, the observance of Herath expands beyond a single night and spans approximately twenty-three days, beginning with Hur-e-Okdoh (the first day of the dark fortnight of the *Purnimanta* month of Phaguna) and concluding on Teel-e-aetham (the eighth day of the bright fortnight of Phagun).[\\[14\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-14)[\\[15\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-15)\n\nMaha Shivratri is also known as Padmarajarathri (पद्मराजरात्रि), a sacred night dedicated to Lord Shiva, observed with fasting, prayers, and night-long worship by devotees.[\\[16\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-16)[\\[17\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-17)\n\nThe origin of Maha Shivaratri is mentioned mainly in Puranic literature. One of the first mentions appears in the Shiva Purana, which links the story of the hunter Gurudruha with Shivaratri.[\\[18\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-18) The story of Gurudruha, who is also referred to as Lubdhaka, is later found in the Javanese didactic text [Siwaratrikalpa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%C5%9Aiwar%C4%81trikalpa \"Śiwarātrikalpa\"), which is dated to being composed between 1466 and 1478.[\\[19\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-19) The festival is also mentioned in the Linga Purana and the Skanda Purana.[\\[20\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-20)\n\n### Archeological origins\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=5 \"Edit section: Archeological origins\")\\]\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/2\/21\/Man_in_a_tree_fleeing_a_tiger._Mohenjo-daro.jpg\/250px-Man_in_a_tree_fleeing_a_tiger._Mohenjo-daro.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Man_in_a_tree_fleeing_a_tiger._Mohenjo-daro.jpg)\n\nOne of eighteen seals depicting the \"human and tiger\" motif from the [Indus Valley Civilization](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indus_Valley_Civilisation \"Indus Valley Civilisation\").[\\[21\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-21) These seals closely resemble the story of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka) that is associated with Maha Shivaratri.\n\nAccording to some scholars, the Lubdhaka (hunter) legend associated with Maha Shivaratri may find its roots in the [Indus Valley Civilization.](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indus_Valley_Civilisation \"Indus Valley Civilisation\")[\\[22\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-22) Archaeological evidence such as the [Pashupati seal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pashupati_seal \"Pashupati seal\") has been widely interpreted by researchers as indicating early forms of Shiva or proto-Shaiva worship.[\\[23\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-23) Archaeologist Gregory Possehl identified at least eighteen examples of a recurring \"human and tiger\" motif in Harappan glyptic art from sites including Harappa, Mohenjo-daro, and Chanhu-daro. These seals closely resemble the story of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka) that appears in the Shiva Purana.[\\[24\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-24)\n\n## Rituals and observances\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=6 \"Edit section: Rituals and observances\")\\]\n\n> **A festival of contemplation**\n> \n> During the Vigil Night of Shiva, Mahashivaratri,   \n>  we are brought to the moment of interval   \n>  between destruction and regeneration;   \n>  it symbolizes the night   \n>  when we must contemplate on that which   \n>  watches the growth out of the decay.   \n>  During Mahashivaratri we have to be alone   \n>  with our sword, the Shiva out of us.   \n>  We have to look behind and before,   \n>  to see what evil needs eradicating from our heart,   \n>  what growth of virtue we need to encourage.  \n>  Shiva is not only outside of us but within us.   \n>  To unite ourselves with the One Self   \n>  is to recognize the Shiva in us.\n\n—*The Theosophical Movement, Volume 72*[\\[25\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-25)\n\nMaha Shivaratri is particularly important in the [Shaivism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaivism \"Shaivism\") tradition of [Hinduism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism \"Hinduism\"). Shivaratri (\"Night of Shiva\") refers to the monthly observance that falls on the 14th night (*chaturdashi*) of every lunar fortnight during the waning phase of the moon. Each lunar month therefore contains one Shivaratri. Devotees observe fasting, night vigil (*jagarana*), and worship of the linga on these days. Thus, Maha Shivaratri may be understood as the \"great\" or preeminent Shivaratri among the twelve monthly Shivaratris in a lunar year.[\\[26\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-26)[\\[27\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-27) Unlike most Hindu festivals that are celebrated during the day, Maha Shivaratri is celebrated at night. It is a festival notable for its fasting and meditation on Shiva and an all-night vigil at Shiva temples.[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-JonesRyan2006p269-5)\n\n### Night vigil *(jagarana)*\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=7 \"Edit section: Night vigil (jagarana)\")\\]\n\nThe celebration includes maintaining a [*jagarana*](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jagran \"Jagran\"), an all-night vigil and prayers, because Shaiva Hindus mark this night as \"overcoming darkness and ignorance\" in one's life and the world through Shiva. In temples, the night is divided into four quarters (p*raharas*), each with its own ritual worship and singing of mantras.[\\[28\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-28)[\\[29\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-29) Offerings of fruits, leaves, sweets and milk are made to Shiva, some perform all-day fasting with Vedic or Tantric worship of Shiva, and some perform meditative [yoga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yoga \"Yoga\").[\\[30\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-30) The injunctions from the Kalanirnaya of Madhvacharya are also followed during the *jagarana.*[\\[31\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-31)\n\nIn [Shaivism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaivism \"Shaivism\"), fasting is traditionally associated with [Shiva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva \"Shiva\") worship. It is customary for the devotees of [Shiva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva \"Shiva\") not to eat anything until they worship him and make him offerings. On most of the days, devotees do not fast for a whole day because the worship is performed in the early morning. However, on the day of Maha Shivaratri, they wait because the worship continues late into the night.[\\[32\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-32)[\\[33\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-33)[\\[34\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-34)\n\nDuring the fast, Iodized salt is completely avoided, and instead, food is prepared using rock salt or unrefined sea salt *(sendha namak)*. Those fasting may do \"nirjala vrat,\" (fasting from all food and water), or fast from meat, eating only fruits and milk during the day.[\\[35\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-:1-35) Eating food made from rice, wheat, or pulses is also discouraged.[\\[36\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-36) *Tamasik* foods such as onion, garlic, and alcohol are also avoided as they are believed to increase lethargy.[\\[37\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-37) The fast is broken on the next day *(chaturdashi)* after taking a bath.[\\[38\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-38)\n\nRitual worship (puja) of the [lingam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lingam \"Lingam\") is the central religious act of Maha Shivaratri. Devotees offer water, milk, yogurt, honey, ghee, and other sacred substances in the ritual known as abhisheka.[\\[35\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-:1-35) Coconut water is generally avoided for the abhisheka, as it becomes *\"nirmalaya\"* (leftover of an offering) after being offered, and therefore becomes unconsumable.[\\[39\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-39)[\\[40\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-40) More than 49 types of plant species from 34 families are used as offerings to the deity throughout various regions of India on Maha Shivaratri. However, leaves of the bilva (Aegle marmelos), considered sacred to Shiva, are the most commonly offered plants.[\\[41\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-41) In Kashmir, walnuts are soaked in water in earthen pots and buried in the ground for four to five days before Shivaratri. On the day of the festival, they are retrieved, offered to Lord Shiva, and distributed to devotees as [prasada.](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Prasada \"Prasada\")[\\[42\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-42)\n\nMany regions in India and Nepal observe Maha Shivaratri not only through temple worship and fasting, but also through large public fairs (melas) and pilgrimage gatherings at important Shaiva sacred sites.[\\[43\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-43) One of the most prominent gatherings takes place at the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, where Maha Shivaratri is among the largest annual religious festivals. Thousands of devotees, including ascetics and sadhus from across South Asia, assemble at the temple complex to perform night vigils, offer bilva leaves, and participate in ritual bathing in the nearby [Bagmati River](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bagmati_River \"Bagmati River\").[\\[44\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-44) The [Mandi Shivaratri Fair](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mandi_Shivaratri_Fair \"Mandi Shivaratri Fair\") held in the town of [Mandi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mandi,_Himachal_Pradesh \"Mandi, Himachal Pradesh\") is also famous as a venue for Maha Shivaratri celebrations. It is believed that all gods and goddesses of the area, said to number more than 200, assemble here on the day of Maha Shivaratri.[\\[45\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-mandi-45)[\\[46\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-shiv-46)\n\nThe significance of the dance tradition to this festival has historical roots. Maha Shivaratri has served as a historic confluence of artists for annual dance festivals at major Hindu temples such as at [Konark](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Konark_Sun_Temple \"Konark Sun Temple\"), [Khajuraho](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Khajuraho_Group_of_Monuments \"Khajuraho Group of Monuments\"), [Pattadakal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pattadakal \"Pattadakal\"), [Modhera](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sun_Temple,_Modhera \"Sun Temple, Modhera\") and [Chidambaram](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thillai_Nataraja_Temple,_Chidambaram \"Thillai Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram\").[\\[47\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-47) This event is called *[Natyanjali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Natyanjali \"Natyanjali\")*, literally \"worship through dance\", at the Chidambaram temple which is famous for its sculpture depicting all dance mudras in the ancient Hindu text of performance arts called *[Natya Shastra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Natya_Shastra \"Natya Shastra\")*.[\\[48\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-48)[\\[49\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-49) Similarly, at Khajuraho Shiva temples, a major fair and dance festival on Maha Shivaratri, involving Shaiva pilgrims camped over miles around the temple complex, was documented by Alexander Cunningham in 1864.[\\[50\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-50)\n\nOn Maha Shivaratri, many devotees perform pilgrimages to the major [Jyotirlinga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jyotirlinga \"Jyotirlinga\") Shiva temples of India, such as [Varanasi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Varanasi \"Varanasi\") and [Somanatha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Somanatha \"Somanatha\"). They also serve as sites for fairs and special events.[\\[51\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-51)[\\[52\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-52) In Tamil Nadu, pilgrimages are also made to the [Annamalaiyar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Arunachalesvara_Temple \"Arunachalesvara Temple\") temple located in [Tiruvannamalai](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tiruvannamalai \"Tiruvannamalai\") district. The special process of worship on this day is Girivalam or Giri Pradakshina, a 14-kilometer barefoot walk around Shiva's temple on top of the hill. A huge lamp of oil and [camphor](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Camphor \"Camphor\") is lit on the hilltop at sunset, not to be confused with [Karthigai Deepam.](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Karthigai_Deepam \"Karthigai Deepam\")[\\[53\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-53) A ritual marathon is undertaken by the devotees to the 12 Shiva shrines in the district of [Kanyakumari](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kanyakumari \"Kanyakumari\") on the day of Shivaratri called [Sivalaya Ottam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sivalaya_Ottam \"Sivalaya Ottam\"). During this period, the rope used for hoisting the temple flag is coated with turmeric powder.[\\[54\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-54) In [Punjab](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Punjab,_India \"Punjab, India\"), Shobha Yatras would be organised by various Hindu organisations in different cities. It is a grand festival for [Punjabi Hindus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Punjabi_Hindus \"Punjabi Hindus\").[\\[55\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-55)\n\nMaha Shivaratri is mentioned in several [Puranas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puranas \"Puranas\"), particularly the *[Skanda Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Skanda_Purana \"Skanda Purana\")*, *[Linga Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Linga_Purana \"Linga Purana\"),* and *[Padma Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Padma_Purana \"Padma Purana\")*. These medieval era Shaiva texts present different versions associated with this festival, such as fasting, and offering reverence to a [lingam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lingam \"Lingam\")—an emblematic figure of Shiva.[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-JonesRyan2006p269-5)\n\nDifferent legends describe the significance of Maha Shivaratri. According to one legend in the [Shaivism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaivism \"Shaivism\") tradition, this is the night when Shiva performs the heavenly dance of creation, preservation and destruction.[\\[7\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-Dhoraisingam35-7)[\\[8\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-auto1-8) The chanting of hymns, the reading of Shiva scriptures and the chorus of devotees joins this cosmic dance and remembers Shiva's presence everywhere. According to another legend, this is the night when Shiva and Parvati got married.[\\[7\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-Dhoraisingam35-7)[\\[56\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-56) It is also believed that on this particular day, Shiva gulped the [Halahala](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Halahala \"Halahala\") produced during the [Samudra Manthana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Samudra_manthan \"Samudra manthan\") and held it in his neck, which bruised and turned blue. As a result, he acquired the epithet [Nilakantha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nilakanta_\\(Hinduism\\) \"Nilakanta (Hinduism)\").[\\[57\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-57)\n\n### The Lingodbhava legend\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=14 \"Edit section: The Lingodbhava legend\")\\]\n\nThe Linga Purana describes another legend known as *Lingodbhava* (the emergence of the linga) in connection with Maha Shivaratri.[\\[58\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-58) In this account, Brahma and Vishnu dispute their supremacy. To settle the debate, a luminous pillar of fire suddenly appeared in front of them. This event was known as *lingodbhava* (the birth of the Linga). Brahma took the form of a swan and ascended, trying to find its top, while Vishnu took the form of a boar and descended, seeking its bottom. After thousands of years of fruitless search, both conceded that neither could find an end. At that moment, Shiva emerged from within the flame, and the first Linga was born. The day Shiva appeared and declared his eternal nature is believed to be the day of Maha Shivaratri.[\\[59\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-59)[\\[60\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-60)[\\[61\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-61)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/7\/70\/Flickr_-_dalbera_-_Shiva_Natar%C3%A2dja%2C_Seigneur_de_la_Danse_%28mus%C3%A9e_Guimet%29.jpg\/250px-Flickr_-_dalbera_-_Shiva_Natar%C3%A2dja%2C_Seigneur_de_la_Danse_%28mus%C3%A9e_Guimet%29.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Flickr_-_dalbera_-_Shiva_Natar%C3%A2dja,_Seigneur_de_la_Danse_\\(mus%C3%A9e_Guimet\\).jpg)\n\nMany legends explain the significance of Maha Shivaratri, one being it is the night of [Shiva's dance](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nataraja \"Nataraja\")(Tandava)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/5\/5b\/Aegle_marmelosleaf_05.JPG\/250px-Aegle_marmelosleaf_05.JPG)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Aegle_marmelosleaf_05.JPG)\n\nBilva (Aegle marmelos) leaves mentioned in the Legend of Gurudruha and traditionally offered to Shiva during Maha Shivaratri\n\n### The legend of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka)\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=15 \"Edit section: The legend of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka)\")\\]\n\nThe [Shiva Purana](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva_Purana \"Shiva Purana\") contains the popular and detailed story of a forest hunter named Gurudruha (also called Lubdhaka in Balineese texts), which narrates one of the earliest textual explanations for the ritual practice of bilipatra (bilva) leaf offerings during Maha Shivaratri. On one Maha Shivaratri night, Gurudruha, a hunter with no formal religious background, went to the forest to hunt and bring home food for his parents. To escape the threat of wild animals, he climbed a bilva tree. During the first quarter of the night, a hind deer came to drink from the lake. Gurudruha aimed his bow at her. The frightened deer pleaded for her life, explaining that she had young fawns at home and requesting permission to entrust them to her husband before returning to face death. After some hesitation, he agreed. While waiting for the deer to return and to keep himself awake the whole night, he plucked bilva leaves and dropped them to the forest floor. Unknown to Gurudruha, a Shiva linga rested directly beneath the tree. When dawn arrived, thousands of leaves lay upon the linga.[\\[62\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-62)[\\[63\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-63)[\\[64\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-64)\n\nAt dawn, the deer returned with her family and told the hunter that if he wished to kill her, he would also have to take their lives. As he raised his bow once more, additional bilva leaves fell upon the Shiva linga. The accumulated punya (spiritual merit) from the worship he had unknowingly performed throughout the night had destroyed his sins and transformed his heart. Thus, he released the deer. Pleased by Lubdhaka's accidental vigil and devotion, Shiva appeared before him and granted a boon, declaring that he would be reborn as the king of the town of Shrungaverapura and that [Lord Rama](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rama \"Rama\") would visit his home and ultimately grant him liberation. In his next life, Gurudruha was born as [Guha.](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Guha_\\(Ramayana\\) \"Guha (Ramayana)\")[\\[65\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-65)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/d\/da\/Prabha_09.jpg\/250px-Prabha_09.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Prabha_09.jpg)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/9\/96\/Kotappakonda.jpg\/250px-Kotappakonda.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Kotappakonda.jpg)\n\nMahashivaratri Celebrations of Kotappakonda ([Palnadu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Palnadu_district \"Palnadu district\"), [Andhra Pradesh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Andhra_Pradesh \"Andhra Pradesh\")) observed at night, usually in lighted temples or specially prepared *prabha* (above).\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/f\/f6\/108_Night_View_Of_Pashupatinath_Temple.jpg\/250px-108_Night_View_Of_Pashupatinath_Temple.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:108_Night_View_Of_Pashupatinath_Temple.jpg)\n\nPashupatinath Temple\n\nMaha Shivaratri is a national holiday in Nepal and celebrated widely in temples all over the country, especially in the [Pashupatinath temple](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pashupatinath_temple \"Pashupatinath temple\"). Thousands of devotees visit the famous [Shiva Shakti Peetham](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shakta_pitha \"Shakta pitha\") nearby as well. Maha Shivaratri is celebrated as Nepali Army Day amid a spectacular ceremony held at the Army Pavilion, [Tundikhel](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tundikhel \"Tundikhel\").[\\[66\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-66) Crowds of sadhus and saints travel to Pashupatinath Temple located in Kathmandu from all of Nepal and neighbouring India to celebrate the day and perform puja on this day.[\\[67\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-67)\n\nIn Pakistan, Maha Shivaratri is observed by Hindu communities at several historic temple sites, including the Katas Raj Temples in Punjab. The festival is typically celebrated for one day and one night. In 2006, approximately 300 Indian pilgrims attended the festival at the site, and subsequent years saw participation by both Indian and Pakistani Hindus. In 2010 and 2011, around 2,000 Pakistani Hindus from various regions reportedly gathered at Katas Raj for Shivaratri observances. In 2005, Lal Krishna Advani visited the temple complex and publicly expressed concern over its deteriorated condition. The site is opened to the public only during Shivaratri celebrations, but restricted by the government for the rest of the year.[\\[68\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-68)\n\nAnother major temple where Shivaratri is celebrated is the [Shree Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple in Karachi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shree_Ratneshwar_Mahadev_Temple,_Karachi \"Shree Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple, Karachi\") whose Shivaratri festival is attended by 25,000 people.[\\[69\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-69) On the Shivaratri night, Hindus in Karachi fast and visit the temple. Later, devotees from the [Chanesar Goth](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chanesar_Goth \"Chanesar Goth\") come to the temple carrying water from the holy river [Ganges](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganges \"Ganges\"), in order to bathe the idol of [Shiva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lord_Shiva \"Lord Shiva\"). [Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Puja_\\(Hinduism\\) \"Puja (Hinduism)\") is performed until 5 am, followed by an [aarti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Aarti \"Aarti\"). Devotees then walk barefoot with women carrying a [pooja thali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pooja_thali \"Pooja thali\") containing flowers, incense sticks, rice, coconut and a [diya](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diya_\\(lamp\\) \"Diya (lamp)\") to the sea after which they are free to break their fast. Breakfast is served in the temple kitchen.[\\[70\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-Shazia_Hasan-70)\n\nMaha Shivaratri is the main Hindu festival among the [Shaiva Hindu diaspora](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shaivite \"Shaivite\") from [Nepal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nepal \"Nepal\") and [India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/India \"India\"). In [Indo-Caribbean](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indo-Caribbean \"Indo-Caribbean\") communities, thousands of Hindus spend the festival night in over four hundred temples across multiple countries, offering special *jhalls* (milk and curd, flowers, sugarcane and sweets) to Shiva.[\\[71\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-71) In 2026, the PM of Trinidad and Tobago, [Kamla Persad-Bissessar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kamla_Persad-Bissessar \"Kamla Persad-Bissessar\"), celebrated Maha Shivaratri by visiting nine Hindu temples across her constituency overnight, joining devotees in the night vigil.[\\[72\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-72)\n\nIn Oman, Maha Shivaratri is observed by the Hindu diaspora at the historic [Motishwar Mandir](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Motishwar_Mandir \"Motishwar Mandir\") in the Muttrah area of Muscat.[\\[73\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-73)[\\[74\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-74) The temple, dedicated to Shiva, was built in 1909 by the Bhatia merchant community from Sindh and Gujarat, whose trading networks had been present in Muscat since the early 16th century. The complex contains shrines to Adi Motishwar Mahadev and [Hanuman](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hanuman \"Hanuman\"), and serves as one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Persian Gulf region.[\\[75\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-75) During Maha Shivaratri, more than 20,000 devotees gather at the temple to perform prayers and night-long worship dedicated to Shiva.[\\[76\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-76)\n\n### Outside the Indian subcontinent\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=21 \"Edit section: Outside the Indian subcontinent\")\\]\n\nIn [Mauritius](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mauritius \"Mauritius\"), Hindus go on pilgrimage to [Ganga Talao](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ganga_Talao \"Ganga Talao\"), a crater-lake.[\\[77\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-77)\n\nMaha Shivaratri is known as Siwa Ratri in [Indonesia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indonesia \"Indonesia\") and is celebrated by Hindus in [Bali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bali \"Bali\") and [Java](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Java \"Java\") as a major festival.[\\[78\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-78)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/1\/15\/Lord_Shiva_devotees_offering_milk%2C_flowers%2C_fruits_and_bel_leaves_on_a_Shivaling_for_seeking_divine_blessings%2C_in_a_city_temple_at_the_celebration_of_Maha_Shivaratri%2C_in_New_Delhi_on_February_23%2C_2009_%281%29.jpg\/250px-thumbnail.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Lord_Shiva_devotees_offering_milk,_flowers,_fruits_and_bel_leaves_on_a_Shivaling_for_seeking_divine_blessings,_in_a_city_temple_at_the_celebration_of_Maha_Shivaratri,_in_New_Delhi_on_February_23,_2009_\\(1\\).jpg)\n\nA family worshipping [Shiva Linga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shiva_Linga \"Shiva Linga\") during fasting period.\n\n- [Pradosha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pradosha \"Pradosha\")\n- [Rudraksha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rudraksha \"Rudraksha\")\n- [Vibhuti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vibhuti \"Vibhuti\")\n- [Rudra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rudra \"Rudra\")\n- [Linga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Linga \"Linga\")\n- [Rudrabhisheka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rudrabhisheka \"Rudrabhisheka\")\n- [Jalabhisheka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jalabhisheka \"Jalabhisheka\")\n\n1. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-SK_1-0)**\n   Stephen Knapp (2012), Hindu Gods & Goddesses, Jaico Publishing House, India, [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [9788184953664](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/9788184953664 \"Special:BookSources\/9788184953664\")\n   \n   , page 110\n2. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-Melton2011p541_2-0)**\n   Melton, J. Gordon (2011). [*Religious Celebrations: An Encyclopedia of Holidays, Festivals, Solemn Observances, and Spiritual Commemorations*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=lD_2J7W_2hQC). ABC-CLIO. pp. 541–542\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-1-59884-206-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-59884-206-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-59884-206-7\")\n   \n   .\n3. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-3)** [15th February 2026, Sunday](https:\/\/www.drikpanchang.com\/festivals\/maha-shivaratri\/maha-shivaratri-date-time.html?year=2026)\n4. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-:0_4-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-:0_4-1)\n   Lochtefeld, James G. (2002). [*The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Hinduism: N-Z*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=GnmPzgEACAAJ). Rosen. p. 637. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-0-8239-3180-4](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-8239-3180-4 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-8239-3180-4\")\n   \n   .\n5. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-JonesRyan2006p269_5-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-JonesRyan2006p269_5-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-JonesRyan2006p269_5-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-JonesRyan2006p269_5-3) [***e***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-JonesRyan2006p269_5-4)\n   Jones, Constance; D. Ryan, James (2006). [*Encyclopedia of Hinduism*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=OgMmceadQ3gC&pg=PA269). Infobase Publishing. p. 269. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-0-8160-7564-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-8160-7564-5 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-8160-7564-5\")\n   \n   .\n6. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-6)**\n   Coulter, Charles Russell; Turner, Patricia (6 December 2021). [*Encyclopedia of Ancient Deities*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=QEJUEAAAQBAJ&dq=shivaratri+wedding&pg=PA428). McFarland. p. 428. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-0-7864-9179-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-7864-9179-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-7864-9179-7\")\n   \n   .\n7. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-Dhoraisingam35_7-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-Dhoraisingam35_7-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-Dhoraisingam35_7-2)\n   Dhoraisingam, Samuel S. (2006). [*Peranakan Indians of Singapore and Melaka*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=QHwcAgAAQBAJ&pg=PA35). Institute of Southeast Asian Studies. p. 35. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-981-230-346-2](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-981-230-346-2 \"Special:BookSources\/978-981-230-346-2\")\n   \n   .\n8. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-auto1_8-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-auto1_8-1)\n   Om Prakash Juneja; Chandra Mohan (1990). [*Ambivalence: Studies in Canadian Literature*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=39FHAAAAYAAJ). Allied. pp. 156–157\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-81-7023-109-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-7023-109-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-7023-109-7\")\n   \n   .\n9. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-brunn402_9-0)**\n   Brunn, Stanley D. (2015). [*The Changing World Religion Map: Sacred Places, Identities, Practices and Politics*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=CGh-BgAAQBAJ&pg=PA403). Springer. pp. 402–403\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [978-94-017-9376-6](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-94-017-9376-6 \"Special:BookSources\/978-94-017-9376-6\")\n   \n   .\n10. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-maitra125_10-0)**\n    Maitra, Asim (1986). [*Religious Life of the Brahman: A Case Study of Maithil Brahmans*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=f3LXAAAAMAAJ). Munshilal. p. 125. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-81-210-0171-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-210-0171-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-210-0171-7\")\n    \n    .\n11. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-11)**\n    Allard, Syama (10 March 2021). [\"5 things to know about Maha Shivaratri\"](https:\/\/hinduamerican.org\/blog\/5-things-to-know-about-maha-shivaratri\/). *Hindu American Foundation*. Retrieved 12 February 2026.\n12. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-12)** TEMPORAL CONCEPTS and PERCEPTION OF TIME in the Ancient Orient. Proceedings of the Workshop “Calendar Festivals of the Ancient Orient” held in St. Petersburg 20th–21th November 2020 edited by Vladimir V. Emelianov St. Petersburg 2021\n13. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-13)**\n    [\"Lunar months - Purnimanta and Amanta system\"](https:\/\/www.ekohumm.com\/lunar-months-purnimanta-and-amanta-system). *ekohumm.com*. Retrieved 12 February 2026.\n14. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-14)**\n    [\"MahaShivratri-Herath: The cultural code of Kashmir\"](https:\/\/hindupost.in\/dharma-religion\/mahashivratri-herath-the-cultural-code-of-kashmir\/). *hindupost.in*. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20240307095524\/https:\/\/hindupost.in\/dharma-religion\/mahashivratri-herath-the-cultural-code-of-kashmir\/) from the original on 7 March 2024. Retrieved 14 February 2026.\n15. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-15)**\n    [\"Shivratri Puja (Vatak Puja \/ Herath Puja)\"](https:\/\/www.kashmiribooks.com\/kashmiri-shivratri-puja-vatak-puja-herath-puja-book). *www.kashmiribooks.com*. Retrieved 14 February 2026.\n16. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-16)**\n    Yadav, Puja (20 February 2020). [\"Maha Shivratri 2020: Date, day, significance, puja time, importance and why celebrate\"](https:\/\/www.indiatoday.in\/information\/story\/maha-shivratri-2020-date-day-significance-puja-time-importance-and-why-celebrate-1648338-2020-02-20). *India Today*. Retrieved 15 February 2026.\n17. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-17)**\n    PTI (9 March 2013). [\"Know why Mahashivratri is celebrated\"](https:\/\/www.indiatvnews.com\/news\/india\/know-why-mahashivratri-is-celebrated-20645.html). *[India TV News](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/India_TV_News \"India TV News\")*. Retrieved 26 February 2026.\n18. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-18)** SIVA PURANAM Published by Sri L.V. Subrahmanyam, I.A.S., Executive Officer, T.T.Devasthanams, Tirupati and Printed at T.T.D. Press, Tirupati.\n19. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-19)**\n    [*Kakawin Siwaratri Kalpa*](http:\/\/archive.org\/details\/kakawin-siwaratri-kalpa).\n20. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-20)**\n    [\"Maha Shivratri 2025: Significance, History & Rituals of the Great Nigh\"](https:\/\/gayatriheritage.com\/blogs\/our-blogs\/maha-shivratri-2024-significance-history-rituals-of-the-great-night-of-shiva). *Gayatri Heritage*. 31 January 2025. Retrieved 14 February 2026.\n21. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-21)** Possehl, Gregory L. \"Indus folklore: an unknown story on some Harappan objects.\" *Intercultural relations between South and Southwest Asia. Studies in commemoration of ECL during Caspers (1934–1996). BAR International Series* (1826): 140-144.\n22. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-22)**\n    Kahoor, Khan, Shahbaig (19 July 2024). [\"Deciphering Indus script and Pashupati Seal of Indus Valley Civilization\"](https:\/\/papers.ssrn.com\/sol3\/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4900721). [SSRN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/SSRN_\\(identifier\\) \"SSRN (identifier)\") [4900721](https:\/\/papers.ssrn.com\/sol3\/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4900721). [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20250530154201\/https:\/\/papers.ssrn.com\/sol3\/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4900721) from the original on 30 May 2025. Retrieved 18 February 2026.\n    \n    `{{cite web}}`: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list ([link](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:CS1_maint:_multiple_names:_authors_list \"Category:CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list\"))\n23. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-23)**\n    Srinivasan, Doris (1975). [\"The So-Called Proto-śiva Seal from Mohenjo-Daro: An Iconological Assessment\"](https:\/\/www.jstor.org\/stable\/20062578). *Archives of Asian Art*. **29**: 47–58\\. [ISSN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISSN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISSN (identifier)\") [0066-6637](https:\/\/search.worldcat.org\/issn\/0066-6637). [JSTOR](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/JSTOR_\\(identifier\\) \"JSTOR (identifier)\") [20062578](https:\/\/www.jstor.org\/stable\/20062578).\n24. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-24)** Possehl, Gregory L. \"Indus folklore: an unknown story on some Harappan objects.\" *Intercultural relations between South and Southwest Asia. Studies in commemoration of ECL during Caspers (1934–1996). BAR International Series* (1826): 140-144.\n25. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-25)**\n    [\"Shiva\"](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20230215001305\/https:\/\/www.ultindia.org\/tm_magazine\/7204shiva.html). *The Theosophical Movement* (reprint). **72** (4). TEOS, Theosophy Company, Mumbai: 137. 2002 \\[February 1962\\]. Archived from [the original](http:\/\/www.ultindia.org\/tm_magazine\/7204shiva.html) on 15 February 2023. Retrieved 21 February 2020.\n26. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-26)**\n    [\"Monthly Shivratri Fast - How to dp Masik ShivaRatri Fasting\"](https:\/\/pujayagna.com\/blogs\/hindu-fasting-days\/masik-shivratri). *Eshwar Bhakti*. Retrieved 14 February 2026.\n27. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-27)**\n    A, Bhavya (26 February 2025). [\"Maha Shivratri\"](https:\/\/cohna.org\/maha-shivratri\/). *Coalition of Hindus of North America*. Retrieved 14 February 2026.\n28. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-28)**\n    Raj, Selva J.; Harman, William P. (1 February 2012). [*Dealing with Deities: The Ritual Vow in South Asia*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=h80yOTwlAUcC&q=vigil&pg=PA147). State University of New York Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-7914-8200-1](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-7914-8200-1 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-7914-8200-1\")\n    \n    .\n29. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-29)** Mahashivratri 2026: Timings And Puja Rituals Explained, Nikhil Pandey NDTV.\n30. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-30)** [Mahashivaratri](http:\/\/www.odisha.gov.in\/portal\/LIWPL\/event_archive\/Events_Archives\/150MAHA_SHIVA_RATRI.pdf) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20140327171257\/http:\/\/www.odisha.gov.in\/portal\/LIWPL\/event_archive\/Events_Archives\/150MAHA_SHIVA_RATRI.pdf) 27 March 2014 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), Government of Orissa; [Maha Shivaratri](http:\/\/publicholidays.in\/maha-shivaratri\/), Public Holidays\n31. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-31)** **Vanlaltlani, T** and Patmury, Joseph (1994) *Sivaratri: An Indian festival of Repentance*. Doing theology with the festivals and customs of Asia, Singapore. pp 59-68\n32. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-32)**\n    [\"Mahashivratri 2022: 5 Foods You Can Have While Observing Mahashivratri Vrat (Fast)\"](https:\/\/www.ndtv.com\/food\/mahashivratri-2018-5-foods-you-can-have-while-observing-mahashivratri-vrat-fast-1811808).\n33. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-33)**\n    [\"Maha Shivaratri Fasting Rules and Vrat Vidhi\"](https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/religion\/rituals-puja\/maha-shivaratri-fasting-rules-and-vrat-vidhi\/articleshow\/81434471.cms). *The Times of India*. 11 March 2021.\n34. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-34)**\n    [\"Maha Shivaratri 2023: What to eat if you are fasting\"](https:\/\/bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com\/bangalore\/others\/maha-shivaratri-2023-what-to-eat-if-you-are-fasting\/articleshow\/98028141.cms).\n35. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-:1_35-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-:1_35-1)\n    [\"Cleanse your body this Maha Shivratri\"](https:\/\/www.hindustantimes.com\/lifestyle\/recipe\/cleanse-your-body-this-maha-shivratri-101646031274662.html). 28 February 2022.\n36. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-36)**\n    [\"Mahashivratri 2023 fasting rules: Dos and don'ts to keep in mind while worshipping Lord Shiva\"](https:\/\/www.hindustantimes.com\/lifestyle\/festivals\/mahashivratri-2023-fasting-rules-dos-and-don-ts-to-keep-in-mind-while-worshipping-lord-shiva-101676468072865.html). *Hindustan Times*. 15 February 2023. Retrieved 18 February 2026.\n37. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-37)**\n    Trending Desk (15 February 2026). [\"Mahashivratri 2026 fasting do's and don'ts: What to do and what to avoid while observing a fast for Lord Shiva\"](https:\/\/economictimes.indiatimes.com\/news\/new-updates\/maha-shivratri-2026-vrat-vidhi-lord-shiva-fasting-rules-timings-dos-and-donts-lord-shiva\/articleshow\/128341903.cms?from=mdr). *The Economic Times*. [ISSN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISSN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISSN (identifier)\") [0013-0389](https:\/\/search.worldcat.org\/issn\/0013-0389). Retrieved 18 February 2026.\n38. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-38)**\n    [\"Mahashivratri 2023 fasting rules: Dos and don'ts to keep in mind while worshipping Lord Shiva\"](https:\/\/www.hindustantimes.com\/lifestyle\/festivals\/mahashivratri-2023-fasting-rules-dos-and-don-ts-to-keep-in-mind-while-worshipping-lord-shiva-101676468072865.html). 15 February 2023.\n39. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-39)**\n    [\"Mahashivratri 2023 fasting rules: Dos and don'ts to keep in mind while worshipping Lord Shiva\"](https:\/\/www.hindustantimes.com\/lifestyle\/festivals\/mahashivratri-2023-fasting-rules-dos-and-don-ts-to-keep-in-mind-while-worshipping-lord-shiva-101676468072865.html). *Hindustan Times*. 15 February 2023. Retrieved 18 February 2026.\n40. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-40)** USHA, B., K. VASANTHI, and C. ESAIVANI. \"BIOREMEDIATION OF TEMPLE WASTES (NIRMALAYA) BY EMPLOYING EUDRILUS EUGENIAE.\"\n41. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-41)** Mandal, Ushashee, et al. \"Significance of Utilizing Plant Resource in Maha Shivratri For The Adoration of Lord Shiva, Odisha, India.\" *Purakala, 31 (33)* (2020): 0971-2143.\n42. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-42)** Ayub, Humeera, Touseef Hussain Trak, and Ravi Upadhayay. \"Inventorization of Ethnosacred plants of Kishtwar district.\" *World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research* 3.1 (2013): 1160.\n43. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-43)**\n    Sharma, L. R. (2005). [*Quality of Life in the Himalayan Region*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=oThuRcNAaN4C&dq=shivaratri+fair&pg=PA164). Indus Publishing. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-81-7387-173-3](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-7387-173-3 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-7387-173-3\")\n    \n    .\n44. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-44)** Sivananda, Swami, and Swami Sahajananda. *Hindu fasts and festivals*. Vol. 5. Divine Life Society, 1983.\n45. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-mandi_45-0)**\n    [\"International Shivaratri fair in Mandi\"](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20100414002705\/http:\/\/himachaltourism.gov.in\/post\/Mandi.aspx). Himachal tourism. Archived from [the original](http:\/\/himachaltourism.gov.in\/post\/Mandi.aspx) on 14 April 2010. Retrieved 8 February 2012.\n46. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-shiv_46-0)**\n    [\"The International Festival\"](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20090401052653\/http:\/\/mandishivratri.com\/about-mandi.html). Archived from [the original](http:\/\/mandishivratri.com\/about-mandi.html) on 1 April 2009. Retrieved 7 February 2010.\n47. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-47)**\n    Pintchman, Tracy (2007). [*Women's Lives, Women's Rituals in the Hindu Tradition*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=7lOc8ZoLV0wC&pg=PA194). [Oxford University Press](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Oxford_University_Press \"Oxford University Press\"). pp. 194–195\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-19-803934-1](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-803934-1 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-803934-1\")\n    \n    .\n48. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-48)**\n    Pintchman, Tracy (2007). [*Women's Lives, Women's Rituals in the Hindu Tradition*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=7lOc8ZoLV0wC&pg=PA194). Oxford University Press. pp. 194–196\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-19-803934-1](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-803934-1 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-19-803934-1\")\n    \n    .\n49. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-49)**\n    Pugh McCutchen, Brenda (2006). [*Teaching Dance as Art in Education*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=C0yjXGJ3EEoC). Human Kinetics. p. 450. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0-7360-5188-0](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0-7360-5188-0 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0-7360-5188-0\")\n    \n    .\n50. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-50)**\n    Shobita Punja (1999). [*Khajuraho: the first thousand years*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=CwfWAAAAMAAJ). Penguin Books. pp. 71–74\\. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [9780670891900](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/9780670891900 \"Special:BookSources\/9780670891900\")\n    \n    .\n51. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-51)**\n    Eck, Diana L. (1982). [*Banras, City of Light*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=lkkqAAAAYAAJ). Knopf. pp. 113, 256, 276. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [9780394519715](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/9780394519715 \"Special:BookSources\/9780394519715\")\n    \n    .\n52. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-52)**\n    [\"🔱Shivaratri - Shivaratri Dates, Schedule and Timing 2023 \\| Next Shivaratri festival on 18 February 2023\"](https:\/\/www.varanasiguru.com\/maha-shivratri\/). *varanasiguru.com*. 25 February 2022. Retrieved 11 February 2023.\n53. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-53)** da Fonseca, Fátima Barahona. \"NARRATIVES OF A SACRED MOUNTAIN. ARUNACHALA, TAMIL NADU, SOUTH OF INDIA.\" *URBAN DESIGN AND PLANNING*: 17.\n54. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-54)**\n    admin (18 October 2015). [\"FAIRS AND FESTIVALS AT THIRUVITHAMCODE SHIVA AND VISHNU TEMPLES – AN OVERVIEW \\| rjisacjournal.com\"](https:\/\/www.rjisacjournal.com\/fairs-and-festivals-at-thiruvithamcode-shiva-and-vishnu-temples-an-overview\/). Retrieved 7 March 2026.\n55. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-55)**\n    [\"Shiv Sena Punjab organises grand Shobha Yatra on Mahashivratri\"](https:\/\/www.tribuneindia.com\/news\/jalandhar\/shiv-sena-punjab-organises-grand-shobha-yatra-on-mahashivratri\/). *The Tribune*. Retrieved 15 February 2026.\n56. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-56)**\n    Leuthold, Steven (2010). [*Cross-Cultural Issues in Art: Frames for Understanding*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=z9GsAgAAQBAJ&pg=PA142). Routledge. pp. 142–143\\. 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[*The Lord Shiva*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=Q4Od9pWMXCsC&q=shivaratri&pg=PT19). Pustak Mahal. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-81-223-1039-9](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-81-223-1039-9 \"Special:BookSources\/978-81-223-1039-9\")\n    \n    .\n59. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-59)**\n    Boer, Lucas den; Cecil, Elizabeth A. (21 September 2020). [*Framing Intellectual and Lived Spaces in Early South Asia: Sources and Boundaries*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=SrH8DwAAQBAJ&q=lingodbhava&pg=PA75). Walter de Gruyter GmbH & Co KG. 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[*Śiwarātrikalpa of MPU Tanakuṅ: An Old Javanese poem, its Indian source and Balinese illustrations*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=kXXoCAAAQBAJ&dq=story+of+lubdhaka&pg=PR5). Springer. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-94-011-9429-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-94-011-9429-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-94-011-9429-7\")\n    \n    .\n64. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-64)**\n    Teeuw, A.; Galestin, Th. P.; Robson, S. O.; Worsley, P. J.; Zoetmulder, P. J. (1969), Teeuw, A.; Galestin, Th. P.; Robson, S. O.; Worsley, P. J. (eds.), [\"Four Balinese Illustrations of the Tale of Lubdhaka\"](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/978-94-011-9429-7_3), *Śiwarātrikalpa of MPU Tanakuṅ: An Old Javanese poem, its Indian source and Balinese illustrations*, Dordrecht: Springer Netherlands, pp. 215–308, [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\\(identifier\\) \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.1007\/978-94-011-9429-7\\_3](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007%2F978-94-011-9429-7_3), [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-94-011-9429-7](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-94-011-9429-7 \"Special:BookSources\/978-94-011-9429-7\")\n    \n    , retrieved 25 February 2026\n    \n    `{{citation}}`: CS1 maint: work parameter with ISBN ([link](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:CS1_maint:_work_parameter_with_ISBN \"Category:CS1 maint: work parameter with ISBN\"))\n65. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-65)** Siva Purana - English Translation - J. L. Shastri - Part 3. Pg. 1431 - 1439\n66. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-66)**\n    [\"Nepali Army \\| नेपाली सेना\"](https:\/\/www.nepalarmy.mil.np\/viewnews\/379).\n67. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-67)**\n    PTI. [\"About 10 lakh visitors expected to throng Pashupatinath temple on Maha Shivratri\"](https:\/\/www.deccanherald.com\/india\/about-10-lakh-visitors-expected-to-throng-pashupatinath-temple-on-maha-shivratri-2928017). *Deccan Herald*. Retrieved 16 September 2024.\n68. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-68)** Gondal, N. A., and S. Arif. \"The Dying Temples of Hindus and Sikhs in Potohar Plateau: A Case.\" (2021): 241-250.\n69. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-69)**\n    [\"150-year-old Hindu temple under threat in Karachi\"](https:\/\/www.indiatoday.in\/world\/pakistan\/story\/shri-ratneshwar-mahadev-temple-karachi-overpass-pakistani-hindus-hrcp-187674-2014-04-04). *Indiatoday*. 4 April 2014. Retrieved 28 August 2020.\n70. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-Shazia_Hasan_70-0)**\n    Shazia Hasan (7 March 2016). [\"Hindus celebrate Maha Shivratri festival in Karachi\"](https:\/\/www.dawn.com\/news\/1243973). *Dawn*. Retrieved 28 August 2020.\n71. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-71)**\n    [\"Trinidad Hindus observe Shivratri amid Carnival Celebration\"](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20160921150332\/https:\/\/repeatingislands.com\/2014\/03\/01\/trinidad-hindus-observe-shivratri-amid-carnival-celebration\/). Repeating Islands. 2 March 2014. Archived from [the original](https:\/\/repeatingislands.com\/2014\/03\/01\/trinidad-hindus-observe-shivratri-amid-carnival-celebration\/) on 21 September 2016. Retrieved 31 August 2016.\n72. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-72)**\n    [\"PM observes Maha Shivaratri with overnight temple visits\"](https:\/\/trinidadexpress.com\/newsextra\/pm-observes-maha-shivaratri-with-overnight-temple-visits\/article_ab5e34c0-ec4b-4588-ac29-f085c19c5c4c.html). *Trinidad Express Newspapers*. 16 February 2026. Retrieved 7 March 2026.\n73. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-73)**\n    Pattnaik, Jajati K.; Panda, Chandan K. (30 June 2022). [\"INDIAN DIASPORA IN OMAN\"](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.37867\/te1402116). *Towards Excellence*: 1401–1414\\. [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\\(identifier\\) \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.37867\/te1402116](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.37867%2Fte1402116). [ISSN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISSN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISSN (identifier)\") [0974-035X](https:\/\/search.worldcat.org\/issn\/0974-035X).\n74. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-74)**\n    Mehta, Sandhya Rao (2 October 2022). [\"Strategic Belonging: Hindu Identity and Performance in Oman\"](https:\/\/www.tandfonline.com\/doi\/full\/10.1080\/25765949.2022.2151741). *Asian Journal of Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies*. **16** (4): 402–416\\. [doi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Doi_\\(identifier\\) \"Doi (identifier)\"):[10\\.1080\/25765949.2022.2151741](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080%2F25765949.2022.2151741). [ISSN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISSN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISSN (identifier)\") [2576-5949](https:\/\/search.worldcat.org\/issn\/2576-5949).\n75. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-75)**\n    Markovits, Claude (22 June 2000). [*The Global World of Indian Merchants, 1750–1947: Traders of Sind from Bukhara to Panama*](https:\/\/books.google.ca\/books?hl=en&lr=&id=M2vu7Odjz6kC&oi=fnd&pg=PP1&dq=The+Global+World+of+Indian+Merchants,+1750%E2%80%931947:+Traders+of+Sind+from+...&ots=G-9UBfwKy6&sig=SeI6muYSU9Sx1PwSoE9XOYbvJ0k#v=onepage&q=The%20Global%20World%20of%20Indian%20Merchants,%201750%E2%80%931947:%20Traders%20of%20Sind%20from%20...&f=false). Cambridge University Press. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-1-139-43127-9](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-1-139-43127-9 \"Special:BookSources\/978-1-139-43127-9\")\n    \n    .\n76. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-76)**\n    [\"PM Narendra Modi visits Shiva temple in Oman\"](https:\/\/economictimes.indiatimes.com\/news\/politics-and-nation\/pm-narendra-modi-visits-shiva-temple-in-oman\/articleshow\/62884919.cms?from=mdr). *The Economic Times*. 12 February 2018. [ISSN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISSN_\\(identifier\\) \"ISSN (identifier)\") [0013-0389](https:\/\/search.worldcat.org\/issn\/0013-0389). Retrieved 7 March 2026.\n77. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-77)**\n    [\"The sacred lake of Ganga Talao\"](https:\/\/www.cnn.com\/2016\/05\/03\/africa\/maha-shivaratri-mauritius\/index.html). CNN. 3 May 2016. Retrieved 12 June 2018.\n78. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-78)** <https:\/\/thebalisun.com\/incredible-hindu-festival-in-java-is-an-essential-add-on-adventure-for-bali-tourists\/>\n\n- [![Wikimedia Commons logo](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/4\/4a\/Commons-logo.svg\/20px-Commons-logo.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Commons-logo.svg) Media related to [Shivaratri](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Shivaratri \"commons:Category:Shivaratri\") at Wikimedia Commons\n- [Maha Shivaratri celebrations in the USA by The Pluralism Project](http:\/\/pluralism.org\/religions\/hinduism\/the-hindu-experience\/the-great-night-of-shiva\/)\n- [Mahashivratri images](https:\/\/www.ibc24.in\/maha-shivratri-2022\/full-hd-shivratri-images-780887.html)","meta_canonical":null,"ml_categories_json":"{\"\/People_and_Society\":985,\"\/People_and_Society\/Religion_and_Belief\":979}","ml_types_json":"{\"\/Article\":999,\"\/Article\/Wiki\":919}","ml_intent_types_json":"{\"Informational\":999}","meta_language":"en","attrs_author":null,"attrs_publish_time":0,"attrs_original_publish_time":1376012999,"attrs_is_republished":0,"attrs_nr_words":"6811","attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words":"5099","body_ext_links_number":104,"body_int_links_number":860,"meta_nofollow":0,"meta_noarchive":0,"props_was_rendered":0,"src_redirect":"","download_time_msec":40,"download_ttfb_msec":27,"download_size":63231}

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Maha Shivaratri Meditating Shiva statue on Maha-Shivaratri Observed by Hindus Type Religious Significance Commemoration of the wedding of Shiva and Parvati Veneration of the Tandava dance of Shiva Manifestation of the lingam [ 1 ] Observances Fasting Self-study Jagarana Lingam puja Yoga [ 2 ] Date Maha Krishna Chaturdashi 2026 date 15 February (Sunday) [ 3 ] Frequency Annual Explanatory note on Hindu festival dates The Hindu calendar is lunisolar but most festival dates are specified using the lunar portion of the calendar. A lunar day is uniquely identified by three calendar elements: māsa (lunar month), pakṣa (lunar fortnight) and tithi (lunar day). Furthermore, when specifying the masa, one of two traditions are applicable, viz. amānta / pūrṇimānta . If a festival falls in the waning phase of the moon, these two traditions identify the same lunar day as falling in two different (but successive) masa. A lunar year is shorter than a solar year by about eleven days. As a result, most Hindu festivals occur on different days in successive years on the Gregorian calendar. v t e Maha Shivaratri is a Hindu festival celebrated annually to worship the deity Shiva , between February and March. [ 4 ] According to the Hindu calendar , The festival is observed on the chaturdashi (14th lunar day) of krishna paksha (waning moon) of the month of Magha or Phalguna. [ 4 ] [ 5 ] The month may vary from month of magh or Phalguna as per Purnimata and Amanta Calendar but is observed on the same lunar night across the regions. The festival commemorates the marriage of Shiva and Parvati , [ 6 ] and the occasion of Shiva performing his ritual dance called tandava . [ 7 ] [ 8 ] It is a notable festival in Hinduism , marking a remembrance of "overcoming darkness and ignorance" in life and the world. It is observed by remembering Shiva and chanting prayers, fasting , and meditating on ethics and virtues such as honesty, non-injury to others, charity, forgiveness, and the discovery of Shiva. [ 5 ] Ardent devotees stay awake throughout this night. Others visit one of the Shiva temples or go on a pilgrimage to the Jyotirlingams . The festival is believed to have originated in 5th century BCE. [ 5 ] In Kashmir Shaivism , the festival is called Har-ratri or phonetically simpler Haerath or Herath by Shiva devotees of the Kashmir region. [ 9 ] [ 10 ] The term Maha Shivaratri is a compound of three Sanskrit elements: maha (महा) meaning "great", Shiva (शिव), the Hindu deity, and ratri (रात्रि), meaning "night". The literal meaning is "the Great Night of Shiva." The festival is observed annually on the krishna paksha (waning moon) chaturdashi (14th lunar day) of the month of Magha or Phalguna [ 11 ] In the Amanta lunar calendar, where a lunar month ends on the new moon day ( Amavasiya ), the date falls in the month of Magha. In the Purnimanta lunar calendar, where a lunar month ends on the full moon day ( Purnima ), the same lunar day of Maha Shivaratri is reckoned as occurring in Phalguna. Despite the difference in month name, the festival is observed on the same lunar night across India. [ 12 ] [ 13 ] In Kashmir , Shivaratri is referred to as Herath (Kashmiri: हेरथ / ہیرَتھ). The name is commonly understood to derive from "Har Ratri" ("Night of Hara"), Hara being a name of Shiva. In the Kashmiri Pandit tradition, the observance of Herath expands beyond a single night and spans approximately twenty-three days, beginning with Hur-e-Okdoh (the first day of the dark fortnight of the Purnimanta month of Phaguna) and concluding on Teel-e-aetham (the eighth day of the bright fortnight of Phagun). [ 14 ] [ 15 ] Maha Shivratri is also known as Padmarajarathri (पद्मराजरात्रि), a sacred night dedicated to Lord Shiva, observed with fasting, prayers, and night-long worship by devotees. [ 16 ] [ 17 ] The origin of Maha Shivaratri is mentioned mainly in Puranic literature. One of the first mentions appears in the Shiva Purana, which links the story of the hunter Gurudruha with Shivaratri. [ 18 ] The story of Gurudruha, who is also referred to as Lubdhaka, is later found in the Javanese didactic text Siwaratrikalpa , which is dated to being composed between 1466 and 1478. [ 19 ] The festival is also mentioned in the Linga Purana and the Skanda Purana. [ 20 ] Archeological origins [ edit ] One of eighteen seals depicting the "human and tiger" motif from the Indus Valley Civilization . [ 21 ] These seals closely resemble the story of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka) that is associated with Maha Shivaratri. According to some scholars, the Lubdhaka (hunter) legend associated with Maha Shivaratri may find its roots in the Indus Valley Civilization. [ 22 ] Archaeological evidence such as the Pashupati seal has been widely interpreted by researchers as indicating early forms of Shiva or proto-Shaiva worship. [ 23 ] Archaeologist Gregory Possehl identified at least eighteen examples of a recurring "human and tiger" motif in Harappan glyptic art from sites including Harappa, Mohenjo-daro, and Chanhu-daro. These seals closely resemble the story of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka) that appears in the Shiva Purana. [ 24 ] Rituals and observances [ edit ] A festival of contemplation During the Vigil Night of Shiva, Mahashivaratri, we are brought to the moment of interval between destruction and regeneration; it symbolizes the night when we must contemplate on that which watches the growth out of the decay. During Mahashivaratri we have to be alone with our sword, the Shiva out of us. We have to look behind and before, to see what evil needs eradicating from our heart, what growth of virtue we need to encourage. Shiva is not only outside of us but within us. To unite ourselves with the One Self is to recognize the Shiva in us. — The Theosophical Movement, Volume 72 [ 25 ] Maha Shivaratri is particularly important in the Shaivism tradition of Hinduism . Shivaratri ("Night of Shiva") refers to the monthly observance that falls on the 14th night ( chaturdashi ) of every lunar fortnight during the waning phase of the moon. Each lunar month therefore contains one Shivaratri. Devotees observe fasting, night vigil ( jagarana ), and worship of the linga on these days. Thus, Maha Shivaratri may be understood as the "great" or preeminent Shivaratri among the twelve monthly Shivaratris in a lunar year. [ 26 ] [ 27 ] Unlike most Hindu festivals that are celebrated during the day, Maha Shivaratri is celebrated at night. It is a festival notable for its fasting and meditation on Shiva and an all-night vigil at Shiva temples. [ 5 ] Night vigil (jagarana) [ edit ] The celebration includes maintaining a jagarana , an all-night vigil and prayers, because Shaiva Hindus mark this night as "overcoming darkness and ignorance" in one's life and the world through Shiva. In temples, the night is divided into four quarters (p raharas ), each with its own ritual worship and singing of mantras. [ 28 ] [ 29 ] Offerings of fruits, leaves, sweets and milk are made to Shiva, some perform all-day fasting with Vedic or Tantric worship of Shiva, and some perform meditative yoga . [ 30 ] The injunctions from the Kalanirnaya of Madhvacharya are also followed during the jagarana. [ 31 ] In Shaivism , fasting is traditionally associated with Shiva worship. It is customary for the devotees of Shiva not to eat anything until they worship him and make him offerings. On most of the days, devotees do not fast for a whole day because the worship is performed in the early morning. However, on the day of Maha Shivaratri, they wait because the worship continues late into the night. [ 32 ] [ 33 ] [ 34 ] During the fast, Iodized salt is completely avoided, and instead, food is prepared using rock salt or unrefined sea salt (sendha namak) . Those fasting may do "nirjala vrat," (fasting from all food and water), or fast from meat, eating only fruits and milk during the day. [ 35 ] Eating food made from rice, wheat, or pulses is also discouraged. [ 36 ] Tamasik foods such as onion, garlic, and alcohol are also avoided as they are believed to increase lethargy. [ 37 ] The fast is broken on the next day (chaturdashi) after taking a bath. [ 38 ] Ritual worship (puja) of the lingam is the central religious act of Maha Shivaratri. Devotees offer water, milk, yogurt, honey, ghee, and other sacred substances in the ritual known as abhisheka. [ 35 ] Coconut water is generally avoided for the abhisheka, as it becomes "nirmalaya" (leftover of an offering) after being offered, and therefore becomes unconsumable. [ 39 ] [ 40 ] More than 49 types of plant species from 34 families are used as offerings to the deity throughout various regions of India on Maha Shivaratri. However, leaves of the bilva (Aegle marmelos), considered sacred to Shiva, are the most commonly offered plants. [ 41 ] In Kashmir, walnuts are soaked in water in earthen pots and buried in the ground for four to five days before Shivaratri. On the day of the festival, they are retrieved, offered to Lord Shiva, and distributed to devotees as prasada. [ 42 ] Many regions in India and Nepal observe Maha Shivaratri not only through temple worship and fasting, but also through large public fairs (melas) and pilgrimage gatherings at important Shaiva sacred sites. [ 43 ] One of the most prominent gatherings takes place at the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, where Maha Shivaratri is among the largest annual religious festivals. Thousands of devotees, including ascetics and sadhus from across South Asia, assemble at the temple complex to perform night vigils, offer bilva leaves, and participate in ritual bathing in the nearby Bagmati River . [ 44 ] The Mandi Shivaratri Fair held in the town of Mandi is also famous as a venue for Maha Shivaratri celebrations. It is believed that all gods and goddesses of the area, said to number more than 200, assemble here on the day of Maha Shivaratri. [ 45 ] [ 46 ] The significance of the dance tradition to this festival has historical roots. Maha Shivaratri has served as a historic confluence of artists for annual dance festivals at major Hindu temples such as at Konark , Khajuraho , Pattadakal , Modhera and Chidambaram . [ 47 ] This event is called Natyanjali , literally "worship through dance", at the Chidambaram temple which is famous for its sculpture depicting all dance mudras in the ancient Hindu text of performance arts called Natya Shastra . [ 48 ] [ 49 ] Similarly, at Khajuraho Shiva temples, a major fair and dance festival on Maha Shivaratri, involving Shaiva pilgrims camped over miles around the temple complex, was documented by Alexander Cunningham in 1864. [ 50 ] On Maha Shivaratri, many devotees perform pilgrimages to the major Jyotirlinga Shiva temples of India, such as Varanasi and Somanatha . They also serve as sites for fairs and special events. [ 51 ] [ 52 ] In Tamil Nadu, pilgrimages are also made to the Annamalaiyar temple located in Tiruvannamalai district. The special process of worship on this day is Girivalam or Giri Pradakshina, a 14-kilometer barefoot walk around Shiva's temple on top of the hill. A huge lamp of oil and camphor is lit on the hilltop at sunset, not to be confused with Karthigai Deepam. [ 53 ] A ritual marathon is undertaken by the devotees to the 12 Shiva shrines in the district of Kanyakumari on the day of Shivaratri called Sivalaya Ottam . During this period, the rope used for hoisting the temple flag is coated with turmeric powder. [ 54 ] In Punjab , Shobha Yatras would be organised by various Hindu organisations in different cities. It is a grand festival for Punjabi Hindus . [ 55 ] Maha Shivaratri is mentioned in several Puranas , particularly the Skanda Purana , Linga Purana , and Padma Purana . These medieval era Shaiva texts present different versions associated with this festival, such as fasting, and offering reverence to a lingam —an emblematic figure of Shiva. [ 5 ] Different legends describe the significance of Maha Shivaratri. According to one legend in the Shaivism tradition, this is the night when Shiva performs the heavenly dance of creation, preservation and destruction. [ 7 ] [ 8 ] The chanting of hymns, the reading of Shiva scriptures and the chorus of devotees joins this cosmic dance and remembers Shiva's presence everywhere. According to another legend, this is the night when Shiva and Parvati got married. [ 7 ] [ 56 ] It is also believed that on this particular day, Shiva gulped the Halahala produced during the Samudra Manthana and held it in his neck, which bruised and turned blue. As a result, he acquired the epithet Nilakantha . [ 57 ] The Lingodbhava legend [ edit ] The Linga Purana describes another legend known as Lingodbhava (the emergence of the linga) in connection with Maha Shivaratri. [ 58 ] In this account, Brahma and Vishnu dispute their supremacy. To settle the debate, a luminous pillar of fire suddenly appeared in front of them. This event was known as lingodbhava (the birth of the Linga). Brahma took the form of a swan and ascended, trying to find its top, while Vishnu took the form of a boar and descended, seeking its bottom. After thousands of years of fruitless search, both conceded that neither could find an end. At that moment, Shiva emerged from within the flame, and the first Linga was born. The day Shiva appeared and declared his eternal nature is believed to be the day of Maha Shivaratri. [ 59 ] [ 60 ] [ 61 ] Many legends explain the significance of Maha Shivaratri, one being it is the night of Shiva's dance (Tandava) Bilva (Aegle marmelos) leaves mentioned in the Legend of Gurudruha and traditionally offered to Shiva during Maha Shivaratri The legend of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka) [ edit ] The Shiva Purana contains the popular and detailed story of a forest hunter named Gurudruha (also called Lubdhaka in Balineese texts), which narrates one of the earliest textual explanations for the ritual practice of bilipatra (bilva) leaf offerings during Maha Shivaratri. On one Maha Shivaratri night, Gurudruha, a hunter with no formal religious background, went to the forest to hunt and bring home food for his parents. To escape the threat of wild animals, he climbed a bilva tree. During the first quarter of the night, a hind deer came to drink from the lake. Gurudruha aimed his bow at her. The frightened deer pleaded for her life, explaining that she had young fawns at home and requesting permission to entrust them to her husband before returning to face death. After some hesitation, he agreed. While waiting for the deer to return and to keep himself awake the whole night, he plucked bilva leaves and dropped them to the forest floor. Unknown to Gurudruha, a Shiva linga rested directly beneath the tree. When dawn arrived, thousands of leaves lay upon the linga. [ 62 ] [ 63 ] [ 64 ] At dawn, the deer returned with her family and told the hunter that if he wished to kill her, he would also have to take their lives. As he raised his bow once more, additional bilva leaves fell upon the Shiva linga. The accumulated punya (spiritual merit) from the worship he had unknowingly performed throughout the night had destroyed his sins and transformed his heart. Thus, he released the deer. Pleased by Lubdhaka's accidental vigil and devotion, Shiva appeared before him and granted a boon, declaring that he would be reborn as the king of the town of Shrungaverapura and that Lord Rama would visit his home and ultimately grant him liberation. In his next life, Gurudruha was born as Guha. [ 65 ] Mahashivaratri Celebrations of Kotappakonda ( Palnadu , Andhra Pradesh ) observed at night, usually in lighted temples or specially prepared prabha (above). Pashupatinath Temple Maha Shivaratri is a national holiday in Nepal and celebrated widely in temples all over the country, especially in the Pashupatinath temple . Thousands of devotees visit the famous Shiva Shakti Peetham nearby as well. Maha Shivaratri is celebrated as Nepali Army Day amid a spectacular ceremony held at the Army Pavilion, Tundikhel . [ 66 ] Crowds of sadhus and saints travel to Pashupatinath Temple located in Kathmandu from all of Nepal and neighbouring India to celebrate the day and perform puja on this day. [ 67 ] In Pakistan, Maha Shivaratri is observed by Hindu communities at several historic temple sites, including the Katas Raj Temples in Punjab. The festival is typically celebrated for one day and one night. In 2006, approximately 300 Indian pilgrims attended the festival at the site, and subsequent years saw participation by both Indian and Pakistani Hindus. In 2010 and 2011, around 2,000 Pakistani Hindus from various regions reportedly gathered at Katas Raj for Shivaratri observances. In 2005, Lal Krishna Advani visited the temple complex and publicly expressed concern over its deteriorated condition. The site is opened to the public only during Shivaratri celebrations, but restricted by the government for the rest of the year. [ 68 ] Another major temple where Shivaratri is celebrated is the Shree Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple in Karachi whose Shivaratri festival is attended by 25,000 people. [ 69 ] On the Shivaratri night, Hindus in Karachi fast and visit the temple. Later, devotees from the Chanesar Goth come to the temple carrying water from the holy river Ganges , in order to bathe the idol of Shiva . Puja is performed until 5 am, followed by an aarti . Devotees then walk barefoot with women carrying a pooja thali containing flowers, incense sticks, rice, coconut and a diya to the sea after which they are free to break their fast. Breakfast is served in the temple kitchen. [ 70 ] Maha Shivaratri is the main Hindu festival among the Shaiva Hindu diaspora from Nepal and India . In Indo-Caribbean communities, thousands of Hindus spend the festival night in over four hundred temples across multiple countries, offering special jhalls (milk and curd, flowers, sugarcane and sweets) to Shiva. [ 71 ] In 2026, the PM of Trinidad and Tobago, Kamla Persad-Bissessar , celebrated Maha Shivaratri by visiting nine Hindu temples across her constituency overnight, joining devotees in the night vigil. [ 72 ] In Oman, Maha Shivaratri is observed by the Hindu diaspora at the historic Motishwar Mandir in the Muttrah area of Muscat. [ 73 ] [ 74 ] The temple, dedicated to Shiva, was built in 1909 by the Bhatia merchant community from Sindh and Gujarat, whose trading networks had been present in Muscat since the early 16th century. The complex contains shrines to Adi Motishwar Mahadev and Hanuman , and serves as one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Persian Gulf region. [ 75 ] During Maha Shivaratri, more than 20,000 devotees gather at the temple to perform prayers and night-long worship dedicated to Shiva. [ 76 ] Outside the Indian subcontinent [ edit ] In Mauritius , Hindus go on pilgrimage to Ganga Talao , a crater-lake. [ 77 ] Maha Shivaratri is known as Siwa Ratri in Indonesia and is celebrated by Hindus in Bali and Java as a major festival. [ 78 ] A family worshipping Shiva Linga during fasting period. 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Eshwar Bhakti . Retrieved 14 February 2026 . ^ A, Bhavya (26 February 2025). "Maha Shivratri" . Coalition of Hindus of North America . Retrieved 14 February 2026 . ^ Raj, Selva J.; Harman, William P. (1 February 2012). Dealing with Deities: The Ritual Vow in South Asia . State University of New York Press. ISBN 978-0-7914-8200-1 . ^ Mahashivratri 2026: Timings And Puja Rituals Explained, Nikhil Pandey NDTV. ^ Mahashivaratri Archived 27 March 2014 at the Wayback Machine , Government of Orissa; Maha Shivaratri , Public Holidays ^ Vanlaltlani, T and Patmury, Joseph (1994) Sivaratri: An Indian festival of Repentance . Doing theology with the festivals and customs of Asia, Singapore. pp 59-68 ^ "Mahashivratri 2022: 5 Foods You Can Have While Observing Mahashivratri Vrat (Fast)" . ^ "Maha Shivaratri Fasting Rules and Vrat Vidhi" . The Times of India . 11 March 2021. ^ "Maha Shivaratri 2023: What to eat if you are fasting" . ^ a b "Cleanse your body this Maha Shivratri" . 28 February 2022. ^ "Mahashivratri 2023 fasting rules: Dos and don'ts to keep in mind while worshipping Lord Shiva" . Hindustan Times . 15 February 2023 . Retrieved 18 February 2026 . ^ Trending Desk (15 February 2026). "Mahashivratri 2026 fasting do's and don'ts: What to do and what to avoid while observing a fast for Lord Shiva" . The Economic Times . ISSN 0013-0389 . Retrieved 18 February 2026 . ^ "Mahashivratri 2023 fasting rules: Dos and don'ts to keep in mind while worshipping Lord Shiva" . 15 February 2023. ^ "Mahashivratri 2023 fasting rules: Dos and don'ts to keep in mind while worshipping Lord Shiva" . Hindustan Times . 15 February 2023 . Retrieved 18 February 2026 . ^ USHA, B., K. VASANTHI, and C. ESAIVANI. "BIOREMEDIATION OF TEMPLE WASTES (NIRMALAYA) BY EMPLOYING EUDRILUS EUGENIAE." ^ Mandal, Ushashee, et al. 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Women's Lives, Women's Rituals in the Hindu Tradition . Oxford University Press. pp. 194– 196. ISBN 978-0-19-803934-1 . ^ Pugh McCutchen, Brenda (2006). Teaching Dance as Art in Education . Human Kinetics. p. 450. ISBN 978-0-7360-5188-0 . ^ Shobita Punja (1999). Khajuraho: the first thousand years . Penguin Books. pp. 71– 74. ISBN 9780670891900 . ^ Eck, Diana L. (1982). Banras, City of Light . Knopf. pp. 113, 256, 276. ISBN 9780394519715 . ^ "🔱Shivaratri - Shivaratri Dates, Schedule and Timing 2023 | Next Shivaratri festival on 18 February 2023" . varanasiguru.com . 25 February 2022 . Retrieved 11 February 2023 . ^ da Fonseca, Fátima Barahona. "NARRATIVES OF A SACRED MOUNTAIN. ARUNACHALA, TAMIL NADU, SOUTH OF INDIA." URBAN DESIGN AND PLANNING : 17. ^ admin (18 October 2015). "FAIRS AND FESTIVALS AT THIRUVITHAMCODE SHIVA AND VISHNU TEMPLES – AN OVERVIEW | rjisacjournal.com" . Retrieved 7 March 2026 . ^ "Shiv Sena Punjab organises grand Shobha Yatra on Mahashivratri" . The Tribune . Retrieved 15 February 2026 . ^ Leuthold, Steven (2010). Cross-Cultural Issues in Art: Frames for Understanding . Routledge. pp. 142– 143. ISBN 978-1-136-85455-2 . ^ Shah, Vaishali (11 July 2019). Hindu Culture and Lifestyle: Living Indian Traditions in the age of Artificial Intelligence . Notion Press. ISBN 978-1-64587-608-3 . ^ Nair, Shantha N. (21 February 2009). The Lord Shiva . Pustak Mahal. ISBN 978-81-223-1039-9 . ^ Boer, Lucas den; Cecil, Elizabeth A. (21 September 2020). Framing Intellectual and Lived Spaces in Early South Asia: Sources and Boundaries . Walter de Gruyter GmbH & Co KG. ISBN 978-3-11-055717-6 . ^ Achuthananda, Swami (27 August 2018). The Ascent of Vishnu and the Fall of Brahma . Relianz Communications Pty Ltd. ISBN 978-0-9757883-3-2 . ^ Romano, Henry; Publications, DTTV. Ancient India and the Vedic Gods . Dttv Publications. ^ Clifton, Wolf Gordon. "Sustainability policy and the stage of divine play: Hindu philosophy at the nexus of animal welfare, environment, and sustainable development." Journal of Animal Ethics 13.2 (2023): 169-183. ^ Tanakuṅ (29 June 2013). Śiwarātrikalpa of MPU Tanakuṅ: An Old Javanese poem, its Indian source and Balinese illustrations . Springer. ISBN 978-94-011-9429-7 . ^ Teeuw, A.; Galestin, Th. P.; Robson, S. O.; Worsley, P. J.; Zoetmulder, P. J. (1969), Teeuw, A.; Galestin, Th. P.; Robson, S. O.; Worsley, P. J. (eds.), "Four Balinese Illustrations of the Tale of Lubdhaka" , Śiwarātrikalpa of MPU Tanakuṅ: An Old Javanese poem, its Indian source and Balinese illustrations , Dordrecht: Springer Netherlands, pp. 215– 308, doi : 10.1007/978-94-011-9429-7_3 , ISBN 978-94-011-9429-7 , retrieved 25 February 2026 {{ citation }} : CS1 maint: work parameter with ISBN ( link ) ^ Siva Purana - English Translation - J. L. Shastri - Part 3. Pg. 1431 - 1439 ^ "Nepali Army | नेपाली सेना" . ^ PTI. "About 10 lakh visitors expected to throng Pashupatinath temple on Maha Shivratri" . Deccan Herald . Retrieved 16 September 2024 . ^ Gondal, N. A., and S. Arif. "The Dying Temples of Hindus and Sikhs in Potohar Plateau: A Case." (2021): 241-250. ^ "150-year-old Hindu temple under threat in Karachi" . Indiatoday . 4 April 2014 . Retrieved 28 August 2020 . ^ Shazia Hasan (7 March 2016). "Hindus celebrate Maha Shivratri festival in Karachi" . Dawn . Retrieved 28 August 2020 . ^ "Trinidad Hindus observe Shivratri amid Carnival Celebration" . Repeating Islands. 2 March 2014. Archived from the original on 21 September 2016 . Retrieved 31 August 2016 . ^ "PM observes Maha Shivaratri with overnight temple visits" . Trinidad Express Newspapers . 16 February 2026 . Retrieved 7 March 2026 . ^ Pattnaik, Jajati K.; Panda, Chandan K. (30 June 2022). "INDIAN DIASPORA IN OMAN" . Towards Excellence : 1401– 1414. doi : 10.37867/te1402116 . ISSN 0974-035X . ^ Mehta, Sandhya Rao (2 October 2022). "Strategic Belonging: Hindu Identity and Performance in Oman" . Asian Journal of Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies . 16 (4): 402– 416. doi : 10.1080/25765949.2022.2151741 . ISSN 2576-5949 . ^ Markovits, Claude (22 June 2000). The Global World of Indian Merchants, 1750–1947: Traders of Sind from Bukhara to Panama . Cambridge University Press. ISBN 978-1-139-43127-9 . ^ "PM Narendra Modi visits Shiva temple in Oman" . The Economic Times . 12 February 2018. ISSN 0013-0389 . Retrieved 7 March 2026 . ^ "The sacred lake of Ganga Talao" . CNN. 3 May 2016 . Retrieved 12 June 2018 . ^ https://thebalisun.com/incredible-hindu-festival-in-java-is-an-essential-add-on-adventure-for-bali-tourists/ Media related to Shivaratri at Wikimedia Commons Maha Shivaratri celebrations in the USA by The Pluralism Project Mahashivratri images

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[Jump to content](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#bodyContent) Main menu Main menu move to sidebar hide Navigation - [Main page](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page "Visit the main page [z]") - [Contents](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Contents "Guides to browsing Wikipedia") - [Current events](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Current_events "Articles related to current events") - [Random article](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Random "Visit a randomly selected article [x]") - [About Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:About "Learn about Wikipedia and how it works") - [Contact us](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Contact_us "How to contact Wikipedia") Contribute - [Help](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:Contents "Guidance on how to use and edit Wikipedia") - [Learn to edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:Introduction "Learn how to edit Wikipedia") - [Community portal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Community_portal "The hub for editors") - [Recent changes](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:RecentChanges "A list of recent changes to Wikipedia [r]") - [Upload file](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:File_upload_wizard "Add images or other media for use on Wikipedia") - [Special pages](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:SpecialPages "A list of all special pages [q]") [![](https://en.wikipedia.org/static/images/icons/enwiki-25.svg) ![Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/static/images/mobile/copyright/wikipedia-wordmark-en-25.svg) ![The Free Encyclopedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/static/images/mobile/copyright/wikipedia-tagline-en-25.svg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page) [Search](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Search "Search Wikipedia [f]") Appearance - [Donate](https://donate.wikimedia.org/?wmf_source=donate&wmf_medium=sidebar&wmf_campaign=en.wikipedia.org&uselang=en) - [Create account](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:CreateAccount&returnto=Maha+Shivaratri "You are encouraged to create an account and log in; however, it is not mandatory") - [Log in](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:UserLogin&returnto=Maha+Shivaratri "You're encouraged to log in; however, it's not mandatory. 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[o]") ## Contents move to sidebar hide - [(Top)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri) - [1 Etymology](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#Etymology) Toggle Etymology subsection - [1\.1 Other names](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#Other_names) - [2 Origins](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#Origins) Toggle Origins subsection - [2\.1 Textual origins](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#Textual_origins) - [2\.2 Archeological origins](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#Archeological_origins) - [3 Rituals and observances](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#Rituals_and_observances) Toggle Rituals and observances subsection - [3\.1 Night vigil *(jagarana)*](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#Night_vigil_\(jagarana\)) - [3\.2 Fasting](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#Fasting) - [3\.3 Puja and abhisheka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#Puja_and_abhisheka) - [3\.4 Fairs (Melas)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#Fairs_\(Melas\)) - [3\.5 Dance (Nrutya)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#Dance_\(Nrutya\)) - [3\.6 Pilgrimage](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#Pilgrimage) - [4 Legends](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#Legends) Toggle Legends subsection - [4\.1 The Lingodbhava legend](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#The_Lingodbhava_legend) - [4\.2 The legend of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#The_legend_of_Gurudruha_\(Lubdhaka\)) - [5 Global worship](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#Global_worship) Toggle Global worship subsection - [5\.1 Nepal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#Nepal) - [5\.2 Pakistan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#Pakistan) - [5\.3 Caribbean](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#Caribbean) - [5\.4 Oman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#Oman) - [5\.5 Outside the Indian subcontinent](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#Outside_the_Indian_subcontinent) - [6 See also](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#See_also) - [7 References](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#References) - [8 External links](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#External_links) Toggle the table of contents # Maha Shivaratri 49 languages - [অসমীয়া](https://as.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A6%AE%E0%A6%B9%E0%A6%BE_%E0%A6%B6%E0%A6%BF%E0%A7%B1%E0%A7%B0%E0%A6%BE%E0%A6%A4%E0%A7%8D%E0%A7%B0%E0%A6%BF "মহা শিৱৰাত্ৰি – Assamese") - [अवधी](https://awa.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BF "महाशिवरात्रि – Awadhi") - [भोजपुरी](https://bh.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%BF "शिवराति – Bhojpuri") - [বাংলা](https://bn.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A6%AE%E0%A6%B9%E0%A6%BE_%E0%A6%B6%E0%A6%BF%E0%A6%AC%E0%A6%B0%E0%A6%BE%E0%A6%A4%E0%A7%8D%E0%A6%B0%E0%A6%BF "মহা শিবরাত্রি – Bangla") - [Deutsch](https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shivaratri "Shivaratri – German") - [डोटेली](https://dty.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%80 "महाशिवरात्री – Doteli") - [Español](https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri "Maha Shivaratri – Spanish") - [فارسی](https://fa.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D9%85%D8%A7%D9%87%D8%A7_%D8%B4%DB%8C%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%AA%D8%B1%DB%8C "ماها شیوارتری – Persian") - [Suomi](https://fi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivratri "Maha Shivratri – Finnish") - [Français](https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahashivaratri "Mahashivaratri – French") - [ગુજરાતી](https://gu.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%AA%B6%E0%AA%BF%E0%AA%B5%E0%AA%B0%E0%AA%BE%E0%AA%A4%E0%AB%8D%E0%AA%B0%E0%AA%BF "શિવરાત્રિ – Gujarati") - [עברית](https://he.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D7%9E%D7%94%D7%90_%D7%A9%D7%99%D7%95%D7%95%D7%A8%D7%98%D7%A8%D7%99 "מהא שיוורטרי – Hebrew") - [हिन्दी](https://hi.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BF "महाशिवरात्रि – Hindi") - [Hrvatski](https://hr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri "Maha Shivaratri – Croatian") - [Bahasa Indonesia](https://id.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri "Maha Shivaratri – Indonesian") - [Italiano](https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mah%C4%81%C5%9Bivar%C4%81tri "Mahāśivarātri – Italian") - [日本語](https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E3%83%9E%E3%83%8F%E3%83%BC%E3%83%BB%E3%82%B7%E3%83%B4%E3%82%A1%E3%83%A9%E3%83%BC%E3%83%88%E3%83%AA%E3%83%BC "マハー・シヴァラートリー – Japanese") - [ಕನ್ನಡ](https://kn.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%B2%AE%E0%B2%B9%E0%B2%BE_%E0%B2%B6%E0%B2%BF%E0%B2%B5%E0%B2%B0%E0%B2%BE%E0%B2%A4%E0%B3%8D%E0%B2%B0%E0%B2%BF "ಮಹಾ ಶಿವರಾತ್ರಿ – Kannada") - [کٲشُر](https://ks.wikipedia.org/wiki/%DB%81%DB%8C%D8%B1%D8%AA "ہیرت – Kashmiri") - [Lietuvių](https://lt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha%C5%A1ivaratr%C4%97 "Mahašivaratrė – Lithuanian") - [मैथिली](https://mai.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%80 "महाशिवरात्री – Maithili") - [Олык марий](https://mhr.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D0%9C%D0%B0%D1%85%D0%B0%D1%88%D0%B8%D0%B2%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%82%D1%80%D0%B8 "Махашиваратри – Eastern Mari") - [മലയാളം](https://ml.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%B4%AE%E0%B4%B9%E0%B4%BE_%E0%B4%B6%E0%B4%BF%E0%B4%B5%E0%B4%B0%E0%B4%BE%E0%B4%A4%E0%B5%8D%E0%B4%B0%E0%B4%BF "മഹാ ശിവരാത്രി – Malayalam") - [मराठी](https://mr.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%80 "महाशिवरात्री – Marathi") - [Bahasa Melayu](https://ms.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri "Maha Shivaratri – Malay") - [नेपाली](https://ne.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BF "महाशिवरात्रि – Nepali") - [नेपाल भाषा](https://new.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BF "महाशिवरात्रि – Newari") - [Nederlands](https://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri "Maha Shivaratri – Dutch") - [Norsk nynorsk](https://nn.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahasjivaratri "Mahasjivaratri – Norwegian Nynorsk") - [Norsk bokmål](https://no.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shivanatten "Shivanatten – Norwegian Bokmål") - [ଓଡ଼ିଆ](https://or.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%AC%AE%E0%AC%B9%E0%AC%BE_%E0%AC%B6%E0%AC%BF%E0%AC%AC%E0%AC%B0%E0%AC%BE%E0%AC%A4%E0%AD%8D%E0%AC%B0%E0%AC%BF "ମହା ଶିବରାତ୍ରି – Odia") - [ਪੰਜਾਬੀ](https://pa.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A8%AE%E0%A8%B9%E0%A8%BE%E0%A8%82_%E0%A8%B8%E0%A8%BC%E0%A8%BF%E0%A8%B5%E0%A8%B0%E0%A8%BE%E0%A8%A4%E0%A8%B0%E0%A9%80 "ਮਹਾਂ ਸ਼ਿਵਰਾਤਰੀ – Punjabi") - [Polski](https://pl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha%C5%9Biwaratri "Mahaśiwaratri – Polish") - [پنجابی](https://pnb.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D9%85%DB%81%D8%A7%DA%BA_%D8%B4%D9%88%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%AA%D8%B1%DB%8C "مہاں شوراتری – Western Punjabi") - [Português](https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri "Maha Shivaratri – Portuguese") - [Русский](https://ru.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D0%9C%D0%B0%D1%85%D0%B0%D1%88%D0%B8%D0%B2%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%82%D1%80%D0%B8 "Махашиваратри – Russian") - [संस्कृतम्](https://sa.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%83 "महाशिवरात्रिः – Sanskrit") - [ᱥᱟᱱᱛᱟᱲᱤ](https://sat.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E1%B1%A2%E1%B1%9F%E1%B1%A6%E1%B1%9F_%E1%B1%A5%E1%B1%A4%E1%B1%B5%E1%B1%BD%E1%B1%A8%E1%B1%9F%E1%B1%9B%E1%B1%A8%E1%B1%A4 "ᱢᱟᱦᱟ ᱥᱤᱵᱽᱨᱟᱛᱨᱤ – Santali") - [سنڌي](https://sd.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D9%85%DA%BE%D8%A7%D8%B4%D9%88%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%AA%D8%B1%D9%8A "مھاشوراتري – Sindhi") - [සිංහල](https://si.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%B6%B8%E0%B7%84%E0%B7%8F_%E0%B7%81%E0%B7%92%E0%B7%80%E0%B6%BB%E0%B7%8F%E0%B6%AD%E0%B7%8A%E2%80%8D%E0%B6%BB%E0%B7%92_%E0%B6%8B%E0%B6%AD%E0%B7%8A%E0%B7%83%E0%B7%80%E0%B6%BA "මහා ශිවරාත්‍රි උත්සවය – Sinhala") - [தமிழ்](https://ta.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%AE%AE%E0%AE%95%E0%AE%BE_%E0%AE%9A%E0%AE%BF%E0%AE%B5%E0%AE%B0%E0%AE%BE%E0%AE%A4%E0%AF%8D%E0%AE%A4%E0%AE%BF%E0%AE%B0%E0%AE%BF "மகா சிவராத்திரி – Tamil") - [ತುಳು](https://tcy.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%B2%B6%E0%B2%BF%E0%B2%B5%E0%B2%B0%E0%B2%BE%E0%B2%A4%E0%B3%8D%E0%B2%B0%E0%B2%BF "ಶಿವರಾತ್ರಿ – Tulu") - [తెలుగు](https://te.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%B0%AE%E0%B0%B9%E0%B0%BE%E0%B0%B6%E0%B0%BF%E0%B0%B5%E0%B0%B0%E0%B0%BE%E0%B0%A4%E0%B1%8D%E0%B0%B0%E0%B0%BF "మహాశివరాత్రి – Telugu") - [ไทย](https://th.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%B8%A1%E0%B8%AB%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%A8%E0%B8%B4%E0%B8%A7%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%95%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B5 "มหาศิวราตรี – Thai") - [Татарча / tatarça](https://tt.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D0%9C%D0%B0%D1%85%D0%B0%D1%88%D0%B8%D0%B2%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%82%D1%80%D0%B8 "Махашиваратри – Tatar") - [Удмурт](https://udm.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D0%9C%D0%B0%D1%85%D0%B0%D1%88%D0%B8%D0%B2%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%82%D1%80%D0%B8 "Махашиваратри – Udmurt") - [Українська](https://uk.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D0%9C%D0%B0%D1%85%D0%B0-%D0%A8%D0%B8%D0%B2%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%82%D1%80%D1%96 "Маха-Шиваратрі – Ukrainian") - [اردو](https://ur.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D9%85%DB%81%D8%A7_%D8%B4%DB%8C%D9%88%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%AA%D8%B1%DB%8C "مہا شیوراتری – Urdu") - [中文](https://zh.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E6%B9%BF%E5%A9%86%E8%8A%82 "湿婆节 – Chinese") [Edit links](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Special:EntityPage/Q848070#sitelinks-wikipedia "Edit interlanguage links") - [Article](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri "View the content page [c]") - [Talk](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Talk:Maha_Shivaratri "Discuss improvements to the content page [t]") English - [Read](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri) - [Edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit "Edit this page [e]") - [View history](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=history "Past revisions of this page [h]") Tools Tools move to sidebar hide Actions - [Read](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri) - [Edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit "Edit this page [e]") - [View history](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=history) General - [What links here](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:WhatLinksHere/Maha_Shivaratri "List of all English Wikipedia pages containing links to this page [j]") - [Related changes](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:RecentChangesLinked/Maha_Shivaratri "Recent changes in pages linked from this page [k]") - 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[Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Shivaratri) - [Wikidata item](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Special:EntityPage/Q848070 "Structured data on this page hosted by Wikidata [g]") Appearance move to sidebar hide From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Hindu festival dedicated to the god Shiva | Maha Shivaratri | | |---|---| | [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/09/02_Mahashivratree_festival.JPG/250px-02_Mahashivratree_festival.JPG)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:02_Mahashivratree_festival.JPG)Meditating Shiva statue on Maha-Shivaratri | | | Observed by | [Hindus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindus "Hindus") | | Type | Religious | | Significance | Commemoration of the wedding of Shiva and Parvati Veneration of the Tandava dance of Shiva Manifestation of the lingam[\[1\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-SK-1) | | Observances | Fasting Self-study [Jagarana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jagran "Jagran") [Lingam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lingam "Lingam") [puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puja_\(Hinduism\) "Puja (Hinduism)") [Yoga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga "Yoga")[\[2\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-Melton2011p541-2) | | Date | Maha Krishna Chaturdashi | | 2026 date | 15 February (Sunday)[\[3\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-3) | | Frequency | Annual | | Explanatory note on Hindu festival dates | |---| | The [Hindu calendar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar "Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar") is lunisolar but most festival dates are specified using the lunar portion of the calendar. A lunar day is uniquely identified by three calendar elements: [*māsa*](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#chandramasa "Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar") (lunar month), [*pakṣa*](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#paksha "Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar") (lunar fortnight) and [*tithi*](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#tithi "Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar") (lunar day). Furthermore, when specifying the masa, one of two traditions are applicable, viz. [*amānta*](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar#amanta "Hindu calendar") / [*pūrṇimānta*](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar#purnimanta "Hindu calendar"). If a festival falls in the waning phase of the moon, these two traditions identify the same lunar day as falling in two different (but successive) masa. A lunar year is shorter than a solar year by about eleven days. As a result, most Hindu festivals occur on different days in successive years on the Gregorian calendar. | | [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Hindu_festival_date_info "Template:Hindu festival date info") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Hindu_festival_date_info "Template talk:Hindu festival date info") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Hindu_festival_date_info "Special:EditPage/Template:Hindu festival date info") | | | |---| | Part of [a series](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Shaivism "Category:Shaivism") on | | [Shaivism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaivism "Shaivism") | | [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/37/SaivismFlag.svg/250px-SaivismFlag.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:SaivismFlag.svg) | | Deities **[Parameshvara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parameshvara_\(epithet\) "Parameshvara (epithet)")** *(Supreme being)* [Shiva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva "Shiva") [Sadasiva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sadasiva "Sadasiva") [Bhairava](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhairava "Bhairava") [Rudra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rudra "Rudra") [Virabhadra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virabhadra "Virabhadra") [Shakti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakti "Shakti") [Parvati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parvati "Parvati") [Sati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sati_\(Hindu_goddess\) "Sati (Hindu goddess)") [Durga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga "Durga") [Kali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali "Kali") [Ganesha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesha "Ganesha") [Kartikeya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kartikeya "Kartikeya") [Forms of Shiva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panchavimshatimurti "Panchavimshatimurti") [Others](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Hindu_deities "List of Hindu deities") | | Schools **Ati marga** [Pashupata](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pashupata_Shaivism "Pashupata Shaivism") [Kalamukha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kalamukha "Kalamukha") **[Mantra marga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mantra_marga "Mantra marga")** *Saiddhantika* [Shaiva Siddhanta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaiva_Siddhanta "Shaiva Siddhanta") *Non - Saiddhantika* [Kapalika](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kapalika "Kapalika") [Kaula](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaula_\(Hinduism\) "Kaula (Hinduism)") [Aghori](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aghori "Aghori") [Trika](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trika "Trika") [Kubjika](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kubjika "Kubjika") [Kashmir Shaivism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kashmir_Shaivism "Kashmir Shaivism") [Pratyabhijna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pratyabhijna "Pratyabhijna") **Others** [Siddharism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siddhar "Siddhar")/[Nath](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nath "Nath") [Inchegeri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inchegeri_Sampradaya "Inchegeri Sampradaya") [Veerashaivism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veerashaivism "Veerashaivism")/[Lingayats](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lingayats "Lingayats") [Shiva Advaita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva_Advaita "Shiva Advaita") | | Scholars and saints **Pashupatha** [Lakulisha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakulisha "Lakulisha") **Saiva Siddhantha** [Nayanars](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nayanars "Nayanars") [Manikkavacakar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manikkavacakar "Manikkavacakar") [Meykandar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meykandar "Meykandar") **Kashmir Shaivism** [Utpaladeva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Utpaladeva "Utpaladeva") [Vasugupta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vasugupta "Vasugupta") [Abhinavagupta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abhinavagupta "Abhinavagupta") [Kshemaraja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kshemaraja "Kshemaraja") **Nath** [Navnath](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navnath "Navnath") **Lingayats** [Basava](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basava "Basava") **Shiva Advaita** [Appayya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Appayya_Dikshita "Appayya Dikshita") **Indonesia** [Nirartha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dang_Hyang_Nirartha "Dang Hyang Nirartha") | | Scriptures and texts **Vedic** [Vedas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vedas "Vedas") [Shvetashvatara Upanishad](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shvetashvatara_Upanishad "Shvetashvatara Upanishad") **Puranas** [Shiva Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva_Purana "Shiva Purana") **Agamas-Tantras** [Agama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agama_\(Hinduism\) "Agama (Hinduism)")\-[Tantras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tantras_\(Hinduism\) "Tantras (Hinduism)") **Pashupata** [Pashupata-sutra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pashupata-sutra "Pashupata-sutra") **Shaiva Siddhanta** [Tirumurai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tirumurai "Tirumurai") **Kashmir Shaivism** [Shivasutras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva_Sutras_of_Vasugupta "Shiva Sutras of Vasugupta") [Tantraloka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tantraloka "Tantraloka") [Pratyabhijnahridayam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pratyabhijnahridayam "Pratyabhijnahridayam") [Vijñāna Bhairava Tantra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vij%C3%B1%C4%81na_Bhairava_Tantra "Vijñāna Bhairava Tantra") **Lingayat** [Vachanas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vachana_sahitya "Vachana sahitya") | | Philosophy Three Components [Pati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pashupati "Pashupati") [Pashu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C4%80tman_\(Hinduism\) "Ātman (Hinduism)") [Pasam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/P%C4%81%C5%9Ba "Pāśa") Three bondages [Anava](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anava "Anava") [Karma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karma "Karma") [Maya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maya_\(religion\) "Maya (religion)") other aspects [36 Tattvas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tattva_\(Shaivism\) "Tattva (Shaivism)") [Yoga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga "Yoga") [Satkaryavada](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satkaryavada "Satkaryavada") [Abhasavada](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abhasavada "Abhasavada") [Svatantrya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Svatantrya "Svatantrya") [Aham](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aham_\(Kashmir_Shaivism\) "Aham (Kashmir Shaivism)") | | Practices [Vibhuti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vibhuti "Vibhuti") [Rudraksha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rudraksha "Rudraksha") [Panchakshara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Om_Namah_Shivaya "Om Namah Shivaya") [Bilva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aegle_marmelos#Religious_significance "Aegle marmelos") [Maha Shivaratri]() [Yamas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yamas "Yamas")\-[Niyamas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Niyama "Niyama") [Guru](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru "Guru")\-[Linga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lingam "Lingam")\-[Jangam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jangam "Jangam") [Vama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vamachara "Vamachara") | | Related [Nandi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nandi_\(Hinduism\) "Nandi (Hinduism)") [Tantrism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tantra "Tantra") [Bhakti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhakti "Bhakti") [Jyotirlinga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jyotirlinga "Jyotirlinga") [Shiva Temples](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Shiva_temples "Template:Shiva temples") [Hinduism in Indonesia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_in_Indonesia "Hinduism in Indonesia") | | ![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/67/Aum_Om_red.svg/20px-Aum_Om_red.svg.png) [Hinduism portal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Hinduism "Portal:Hinduism") | | [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Saivism "Template:Saivism") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Saivism "Template talk:Saivism") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Saivism "Special:EditPage/Template:Saivism") | **Maha Shivaratri** is a [Hindu festival](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_festival "Hindu festival") celebrated annually to worship the deity [Shiva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva "Shiva"), between February and March.[\[4\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-:0-4) According to the [Hindu calendar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar "Hindu calendar"), The festival is observed on the chaturdashi (14th lunar day) of krishna paksha (waning moon) of the month of Magha or Phalguna.[\[4\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-:0-4)[\[5\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-JonesRyan2006p269-5) The month may vary from month of magh or Phalguna as per Purnimata and Amanta Calendar but is observed on the same lunar night across the regions. The festival commemorates the marriage of Shiva and [Parvati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parvati "Parvati"),[\[6\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-6) and the occasion of Shiva performing his [ritual dance](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sacred_dance "Sacred dance") called [tandava](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tandava "Tandava").[\[7\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-Dhoraisingam35-7)[\[8\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-auto1-8) It is a notable festival in [Hinduism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism "Hinduism"), marking a remembrance of "overcoming darkness and ignorance" in life and the world. It is observed by remembering Shiva and chanting prayers, [fasting](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vrata "Vrata"), and meditating on ethics and virtues such as honesty, non-injury to others, charity, forgiveness, and the discovery of Shiva.[\[5\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-JonesRyan2006p269-5) Ardent devotees stay awake throughout this night. Others visit one of the [Shiva temples](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva "Shiva") or go on a pilgrimage to the [Jyotirlingams](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jyotirlingam "Jyotirlingam"). The festival is believed to have originated in 5th century BCE.[\[5\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-JonesRyan2006p269-5) In [Kashmir Shaivism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kashmir_Shaivism "Kashmir Shaivism"), the festival is called Har-ratri or phonetically simpler Haerath or Herath by Shiva devotees of the Kashmir region.[\[9\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-brunn402-9)[\[10\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-maitra125-10) ## Etymology \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=1 "Edit section: Etymology")\] The term Maha Shivaratri is a compound of three Sanskrit elements: *maha (महा) meaning* "great", Shiva (शिव), the Hindu deity, and ratri (रात्रि), meaning "night". The literal meaning is "the Great Night of Shiva." The festival is observed annually on the *krishna paksha* (waning moon) *chaturdashi* (14th lunar day) of the month of [Magha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magha_\(month\) "Magha (month)") or [Phalguna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phalguna "Phalguna")[\[11\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-11) In the *Amanta* lunar calendar, where a lunar month ends on the new moon day (*Amavasiya*), the date falls in the month of Magha. In the *Purnimanta* lunar calendar, where a lunar month ends on the full moon day (*Purnima*), the same lunar day of Maha Shivaratri is reckoned as occurring in Phalguna. Despite the difference in month name, the festival is observed on the same lunar night across India.[\[12\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-12)[\[13\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-13) ### Other names \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=2 "Edit section: Other names")\] In [Kashmir](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kashmir "Kashmir"), Shivaratri is referred to as Herath (Kashmiri: हेरथ / ہیرَتھ). The name is commonly understood to derive from "Har Ratri" ("Night of Hara"), Hara being a name of Shiva. In the Kashmiri Pandit tradition, the observance of Herath expands beyond a single night and spans approximately twenty-three days, beginning with Hur-e-Okdoh (the first day of the dark fortnight of the *Purnimanta* month of Phaguna) and concluding on Teel-e-aetham (the eighth day of the bright fortnight of Phagun).[\[14\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-14)[\[15\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-15) Maha Shivratri is also known as Padmarajarathri (पद्मराजरात्रि), a sacred night dedicated to Lord Shiva, observed with fasting, prayers, and night-long worship by devotees.[\[16\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-16)[\[17\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-17) ## Origins \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=3 "Edit section: Origins")\] ### Textual origins \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=4 "Edit section: Textual origins")\] The origin of Maha Shivaratri is mentioned mainly in Puranic literature. One of the first mentions appears in the Shiva Purana, which links the story of the hunter Gurudruha with Shivaratri.[\[18\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-18) The story of Gurudruha, who is also referred to as Lubdhaka, is later found in the Javanese didactic text [Siwaratrikalpa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C5%9Aiwar%C4%81trikalpa "Śiwarātrikalpa"), which is dated to being composed between 1466 and 1478.[\[19\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-19) The festival is also mentioned in the Linga Purana and the Skanda Purana.[\[20\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-20) ### Archeological origins \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=5 "Edit section: Archeological origins")\] [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/21/Man_in_a_tree_fleeing_a_tiger._Mohenjo-daro.jpg/250px-Man_in_a_tree_fleeing_a_tiger._Mohenjo-daro.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Man_in_a_tree_fleeing_a_tiger._Mohenjo-daro.jpg) One of eighteen seals depicting the "human and tiger" motif from the [Indus Valley Civilization](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indus_Valley_Civilisation "Indus Valley Civilisation").[\[21\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-21) These seals closely resemble the story of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka) that is associated with Maha Shivaratri. According to some scholars, the Lubdhaka (hunter) legend associated with Maha Shivaratri may find its roots in the [Indus Valley Civilization.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indus_Valley_Civilisation "Indus Valley Civilisation")[\[22\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-22) Archaeological evidence such as the [Pashupati seal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pashupati_seal "Pashupati seal") has been widely interpreted by researchers as indicating early forms of Shiva or proto-Shaiva worship.[\[23\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-23) Archaeologist Gregory Possehl identified at least eighteen examples of a recurring "human and tiger" motif in Harappan glyptic art from sites including Harappa, Mohenjo-daro, and Chanhu-daro. These seals closely resemble the story of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka) that appears in the Shiva Purana.[\[24\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-24) ## Rituals and observances \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=6 "Edit section: Rituals and observances")\] > **A festival of contemplation** > > During the Vigil Night of Shiva, Mahashivaratri, > we are brought to the moment of interval > between destruction and regeneration; > it symbolizes the night > when we must contemplate on that which > watches the growth out of the decay. > During Mahashivaratri we have to be alone > with our sword, the Shiva out of us. > We have to look behind and before, > to see what evil needs eradicating from our heart, > what growth of virtue we need to encourage. > Shiva is not only outside of us but within us. > To unite ourselves with the One Self > is to recognize the Shiva in us. —*The Theosophical Movement, Volume 72*[\[25\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-25) Maha Shivaratri is particularly important in the [Shaivism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaivism "Shaivism") tradition of [Hinduism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism "Hinduism"). Shivaratri ("Night of Shiva") refers to the monthly observance that falls on the 14th night (*chaturdashi*) of every lunar fortnight during the waning phase of the moon. Each lunar month therefore contains one Shivaratri. Devotees observe fasting, night vigil (*jagarana*), and worship of the linga on these days. Thus, Maha Shivaratri may be understood as the "great" or preeminent Shivaratri among the twelve monthly Shivaratris in a lunar year.[\[26\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-26)[\[27\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-27) Unlike most Hindu festivals that are celebrated during the day, Maha Shivaratri is celebrated at night. It is a festival notable for its fasting and meditation on Shiva and an all-night vigil at Shiva temples.[\[5\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-JonesRyan2006p269-5) ### Night vigil *(jagarana)* \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=7 "Edit section: Night vigil (jagarana)")\] The celebration includes maintaining a [*jagarana*](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jagran "Jagran"), an all-night vigil and prayers, because Shaiva Hindus mark this night as "overcoming darkness and ignorance" in one's life and the world through Shiva. In temples, the night is divided into four quarters (p*raharas*), each with its own ritual worship and singing of mantras.[\[28\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-28)[\[29\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-29) Offerings of fruits, leaves, sweets and milk are made to Shiva, some perform all-day fasting with Vedic or Tantric worship of Shiva, and some perform meditative [yoga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga "Yoga").[\[30\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-30) The injunctions from the Kalanirnaya of Madhvacharya are also followed during the *jagarana.*[\[31\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-31) ### Fasting \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=8 "Edit section: Fasting")\] In [Shaivism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaivism "Shaivism"), fasting is traditionally associated with [Shiva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva "Shiva") worship. It is customary for the devotees of [Shiva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva "Shiva") not to eat anything until they worship him and make him offerings. On most of the days, devotees do not fast for a whole day because the worship is performed in the early morning. However, on the day of Maha Shivaratri, they wait because the worship continues late into the night.[\[32\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-32)[\[33\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-33)[\[34\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-34) During the fast, Iodized salt is completely avoided, and instead, food is prepared using rock salt or unrefined sea salt *(sendha namak)*. Those fasting may do "nirjala vrat," (fasting from all food and water), or fast from meat, eating only fruits and milk during the day.[\[35\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-:1-35) Eating food made from rice, wheat, or pulses is also discouraged.[\[36\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-36) *Tamasik* foods such as onion, garlic, and alcohol are also avoided as they are believed to increase lethargy.[\[37\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-37) The fast is broken on the next day *(chaturdashi)* after taking a bath.[\[38\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-38) ### Puja and abhisheka \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=9 "Edit section: Puja and abhisheka")\] Ritual worship (puja) of the [lingam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lingam "Lingam") is the central religious act of Maha Shivaratri. Devotees offer water, milk, yogurt, honey, ghee, and other sacred substances in the ritual known as abhisheka.[\[35\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-:1-35) Coconut water is generally avoided for the abhisheka, as it becomes *"nirmalaya"* (leftover of an offering) after being offered, and therefore becomes unconsumable.[\[39\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-39)[\[40\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-40) More than 49 types of plant species from 34 families are used as offerings to the deity throughout various regions of India on Maha Shivaratri. However, leaves of the bilva (Aegle marmelos), considered sacred to Shiva, are the most commonly offered plants.[\[41\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-41) In Kashmir, walnuts are soaked in water in earthen pots and buried in the ground for four to five days before Shivaratri. On the day of the festival, they are retrieved, offered to Lord Shiva, and distributed to devotees as [prasada.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prasada "Prasada")[\[42\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-42) ### Fairs (Melas) \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=10 "Edit section: Fairs (Melas)")\] Many regions in India and Nepal observe Maha Shivaratri not only through temple worship and fasting, but also through large public fairs (melas) and pilgrimage gatherings at important Shaiva sacred sites.[\[43\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-43) One of the most prominent gatherings takes place at the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, where Maha Shivaratri is among the largest annual religious festivals. Thousands of devotees, including ascetics and sadhus from across South Asia, assemble at the temple complex to perform night vigils, offer bilva leaves, and participate in ritual bathing in the nearby [Bagmati River](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bagmati_River "Bagmati River").[\[44\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-44) The [Mandi Shivaratri Fair](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandi_Shivaratri_Fair "Mandi Shivaratri Fair") held in the town of [Mandi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandi,_Himachal_Pradesh "Mandi, Himachal Pradesh") is also famous as a venue for Maha Shivaratri celebrations. It is believed that all gods and goddesses of the area, said to number more than 200, assemble here on the day of Maha Shivaratri.[\[45\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-mandi-45)[\[46\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-shiv-46) ### Dance (Nrutya) \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=11 "Edit section: Dance (Nrutya)")\] The significance of the dance tradition to this festival has historical roots. Maha Shivaratri has served as a historic confluence of artists for annual dance festivals at major Hindu temples such as at [Konark](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Konark_Sun_Temple "Konark Sun Temple"), [Khajuraho](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khajuraho_Group_of_Monuments "Khajuraho Group of Monuments"), [Pattadakal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pattadakal "Pattadakal"), [Modhera](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sun_Temple,_Modhera "Sun Temple, Modhera") and [Chidambaram](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thillai_Nataraja_Temple,_Chidambaram "Thillai Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram").[\[47\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-47) This event is called *[Natyanjali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natyanjali "Natyanjali")*, literally "worship through dance", at the Chidambaram temple which is famous for its sculpture depicting all dance mudras in the ancient Hindu text of performance arts called *[Natya Shastra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natya_Shastra "Natya Shastra")*.[\[48\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-48)[\[49\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-49) Similarly, at Khajuraho Shiva temples, a major fair and dance festival on Maha Shivaratri, involving Shaiva pilgrims camped over miles around the temple complex, was documented by Alexander Cunningham in 1864.[\[50\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-50) ### Pilgrimage \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=12 "Edit section: Pilgrimage")\] On Maha Shivaratri, many devotees perform pilgrimages to the major [Jyotirlinga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jyotirlinga "Jyotirlinga") Shiva temples of India, such as [Varanasi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varanasi "Varanasi") and [Somanatha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Somanatha "Somanatha"). They also serve as sites for fairs and special events.[\[51\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-51)[\[52\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-52) In Tamil Nadu, pilgrimages are also made to the [Annamalaiyar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arunachalesvara_Temple "Arunachalesvara Temple") temple located in [Tiruvannamalai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiruvannamalai "Tiruvannamalai") district. The special process of worship on this day is Girivalam or Giri Pradakshina, a 14-kilometer barefoot walk around Shiva's temple on top of the hill. A huge lamp of oil and [camphor](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camphor "Camphor") is lit on the hilltop at sunset, not to be confused with [Karthigai Deepam.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karthigai_Deepam "Karthigai Deepam")[\[53\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-53) A ritual marathon is undertaken by the devotees to the 12 Shiva shrines in the district of [Kanyakumari](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kanyakumari "Kanyakumari") on the day of Shivaratri called [Sivalaya Ottam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sivalaya_Ottam "Sivalaya Ottam"). During this period, the rope used for hoisting the temple flag is coated with turmeric powder.[\[54\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-54) In [Punjab](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punjab,_India "Punjab, India"), Shobha Yatras would be organised by various Hindu organisations in different cities. It is a grand festival for [Punjabi Hindus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punjabi_Hindus "Punjabi Hindus").[\[55\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-55) ## Legends \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=13 "Edit section: Legends")\] Maha Shivaratri is mentioned in several [Puranas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puranas "Puranas"), particularly the *[Skanda Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skanda_Purana "Skanda Purana")*, *[Linga Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linga_Purana "Linga Purana"),* and *[Padma Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Padma_Purana "Padma Purana")*. These medieval era Shaiva texts present different versions associated with this festival, such as fasting, and offering reverence to a [lingam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lingam "Lingam")—an emblematic figure of Shiva.[\[5\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-JonesRyan2006p269-5) Different legends describe the significance of Maha Shivaratri. According to one legend in the [Shaivism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaivism "Shaivism") tradition, this is the night when Shiva performs the heavenly dance of creation, preservation and destruction.[\[7\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-Dhoraisingam35-7)[\[8\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-auto1-8) The chanting of hymns, the reading of Shiva scriptures and the chorus of devotees joins this cosmic dance and remembers Shiva's presence everywhere. According to another legend, this is the night when Shiva and Parvati got married.[\[7\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-Dhoraisingam35-7)[\[56\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-56) It is also believed that on this particular day, Shiva gulped the [Halahala](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Halahala "Halahala") produced during the [Samudra Manthana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samudra_manthan "Samudra manthan") and held it in his neck, which bruised and turned blue. As a result, he acquired the epithet [Nilakantha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nilakanta_\(Hinduism\) "Nilakanta (Hinduism)").[\[57\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-57) ### The Lingodbhava legend \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=14 "Edit section: The Lingodbhava legend")\] The Linga Purana describes another legend known as *Lingodbhava* (the emergence of the linga) in connection with Maha Shivaratri.[\[58\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-58) In this account, Brahma and Vishnu dispute their supremacy. To settle the debate, a luminous pillar of fire suddenly appeared in front of them. This event was known as *lingodbhava* (the birth of the Linga). Brahma took the form of a swan and ascended, trying to find its top, while Vishnu took the form of a boar and descended, seeking its bottom. After thousands of years of fruitless search, both conceded that neither could find an end. At that moment, Shiva emerged from within the flame, and the first Linga was born. The day Shiva appeared and declared his eternal nature is believed to be the day of Maha Shivaratri.[\[59\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-59)[\[60\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-60)[\[61\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-61) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/70/Flickr_-_dalbera_-_Shiva_Natar%C3%A2dja%2C_Seigneur_de_la_Danse_%28mus%C3%A9e_Guimet%29.jpg/250px-Flickr_-_dalbera_-_Shiva_Natar%C3%A2dja%2C_Seigneur_de_la_Danse_%28mus%C3%A9e_Guimet%29.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Flickr_-_dalbera_-_Shiva_Natar%C3%A2dja,_Seigneur_de_la_Danse_\(mus%C3%A9e_Guimet\).jpg) Many legends explain the significance of Maha Shivaratri, one being it is the night of [Shiva's dance](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nataraja "Nataraja")(Tandava) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/5b/Aegle_marmelosleaf_05.JPG/250px-Aegle_marmelosleaf_05.JPG)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Aegle_marmelosleaf_05.JPG) Bilva (Aegle marmelos) leaves mentioned in the Legend of Gurudruha and traditionally offered to Shiva during Maha Shivaratri ### The legend of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka) \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=15 "Edit section: The legend of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka)")\] The [Shiva Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva_Purana "Shiva Purana") contains the popular and detailed story of a forest hunter named Gurudruha (also called Lubdhaka in Balineese texts), which narrates one of the earliest textual explanations for the ritual practice of bilipatra (bilva) leaf offerings during Maha Shivaratri. On one Maha Shivaratri night, Gurudruha, a hunter with no formal religious background, went to the forest to hunt and bring home food for his parents. To escape the threat of wild animals, he climbed a bilva tree. During the first quarter of the night, a hind deer came to drink from the lake. Gurudruha aimed his bow at her. The frightened deer pleaded for her life, explaining that she had young fawns at home and requesting permission to entrust them to her husband before returning to face death. After some hesitation, he agreed. While waiting for the deer to return and to keep himself awake the whole night, he plucked bilva leaves and dropped them to the forest floor. Unknown to Gurudruha, a Shiva linga rested directly beneath the tree. When dawn arrived, thousands of leaves lay upon the linga.[\[62\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-62)[\[63\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-63)[\[64\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-64) At dawn, the deer returned with her family and told the hunter that if he wished to kill her, he would also have to take their lives. As he raised his bow once more, additional bilva leaves fell upon the Shiva linga. The accumulated punya (spiritual merit) from the worship he had unknowingly performed throughout the night had destroyed his sins and transformed his heart. Thus, he released the deer. Pleased by Lubdhaka's accidental vigil and devotion, Shiva appeared before him and granted a boon, declaring that he would be reborn as the king of the town of Shrungaverapura and that [Lord Rama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rama "Rama") would visit his home and ultimately grant him liberation. In his next life, Gurudruha was born as [Guha.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guha_\(Ramayana\) "Guha (Ramayana)")[\[65\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-65) ## Global worship \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=16 "Edit section: Global worship")\] [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/da/Prabha_09.jpg/250px-Prabha_09.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Prabha_09.jpg) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/96/Kotappakonda.jpg/250px-Kotappakonda.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Kotappakonda.jpg) Mahashivaratri Celebrations of Kotappakonda ([Palnadu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palnadu_district "Palnadu district"), [Andhra Pradesh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andhra_Pradesh "Andhra Pradesh")) observed at night, usually in lighted temples or specially prepared *prabha* (above). ### Nepal \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=17 "Edit section: Nepal")\] [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f6/108_Night_View_Of_Pashupatinath_Temple.jpg/250px-108_Night_View_Of_Pashupatinath_Temple.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:108_Night_View_Of_Pashupatinath_Temple.jpg) Pashupatinath Temple Maha Shivaratri is a national holiday in Nepal and celebrated widely in temples all over the country, especially in the [Pashupatinath temple](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pashupatinath_temple "Pashupatinath temple"). Thousands of devotees visit the famous [Shiva Shakti Peetham](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakta_pitha "Shakta pitha") nearby as well. Maha Shivaratri is celebrated as Nepali Army Day amid a spectacular ceremony held at the Army Pavilion, [Tundikhel](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tundikhel "Tundikhel").[\[66\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-66) Crowds of sadhus and saints travel to Pashupatinath Temple located in Kathmandu from all of Nepal and neighbouring India to celebrate the day and perform puja on this day.[\[67\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-67) ### Pakistan \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=18 "Edit section: Pakistan")\] In Pakistan, Maha Shivaratri is observed by Hindu communities at several historic temple sites, including the Katas Raj Temples in Punjab. The festival is typically celebrated for one day and one night. In 2006, approximately 300 Indian pilgrims attended the festival at the site, and subsequent years saw participation by both Indian and Pakistani Hindus. In 2010 and 2011, around 2,000 Pakistani Hindus from various regions reportedly gathered at Katas Raj for Shivaratri observances. In 2005, Lal Krishna Advani visited the temple complex and publicly expressed concern over its deteriorated condition. The site is opened to the public only during Shivaratri celebrations, but restricted by the government for the rest of the year.[\[68\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-68) Another major temple where Shivaratri is celebrated is the [Shree Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple in Karachi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shree_Ratneshwar_Mahadev_Temple,_Karachi "Shree Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple, Karachi") whose Shivaratri festival is attended by 25,000 people.[\[69\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-69) On the Shivaratri night, Hindus in Karachi fast and visit the temple. Later, devotees from the [Chanesar Goth](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chanesar_Goth "Chanesar Goth") come to the temple carrying water from the holy river [Ganges](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganges "Ganges"), in order to bathe the idol of [Shiva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lord_Shiva "Lord Shiva"). [Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puja_\(Hinduism\) "Puja (Hinduism)") is performed until 5 am, followed by an [aarti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aarti "Aarti"). Devotees then walk barefoot with women carrying a [pooja thali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pooja_thali "Pooja thali") containing flowers, incense sticks, rice, coconut and a [diya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diya_\(lamp\) "Diya (lamp)") to the sea after which they are free to break their fast. Breakfast is served in the temple kitchen.[\[70\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-Shazia_Hasan-70) ### Caribbean \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=19 "Edit section: Caribbean")\] Maha Shivaratri is the main Hindu festival among the [Shaiva Hindu diaspora](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaivite "Shaivite") from [Nepal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nepal "Nepal") and [India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India "India"). In [Indo-Caribbean](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indo-Caribbean "Indo-Caribbean") communities, thousands of Hindus spend the festival night in over four hundred temples across multiple countries, offering special *jhalls* (milk and curd, flowers, sugarcane and sweets) to Shiva.[\[71\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-71) In 2026, the PM of Trinidad and Tobago, [Kamla Persad-Bissessar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kamla_Persad-Bissessar "Kamla Persad-Bissessar"), celebrated Maha Shivaratri by visiting nine Hindu temples across her constituency overnight, joining devotees in the night vigil.[\[72\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-72) ### Oman \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=20 "Edit section: Oman")\] In Oman, Maha Shivaratri is observed by the Hindu diaspora at the historic [Motishwar Mandir](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motishwar_Mandir "Motishwar Mandir") in the Muttrah area of Muscat.[\[73\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-73)[\[74\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-74) The temple, dedicated to Shiva, was built in 1909 by the Bhatia merchant community from Sindh and Gujarat, whose trading networks had been present in Muscat since the early 16th century. The complex contains shrines to Adi Motishwar Mahadev and [Hanuman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanuman "Hanuman"), and serves as one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Persian Gulf region.[\[75\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-75) During Maha Shivaratri, more than 20,000 devotees gather at the temple to perform prayers and night-long worship dedicated to Shiva.[\[76\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-76) ### Outside the Indian subcontinent \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=21 "Edit section: Outside the Indian subcontinent")\] In [Mauritius](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mauritius "Mauritius"), Hindus go on pilgrimage to [Ganga Talao](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganga_Talao "Ganga Talao"), a crater-lake.[\[77\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-77) Maha Shivaratri is known as Siwa Ratri in [Indonesia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indonesia "Indonesia") and is celebrated by Hindus in [Bali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bali "Bali") and [Java](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Java "Java") as a major festival.[\[78\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-78) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/15/Lord_Shiva_devotees_offering_milk%2C_flowers%2C_fruits_and_bel_leaves_on_a_Shivaling_for_seeking_divine_blessings%2C_in_a_city_temple_at_the_celebration_of_Maha_Shivaratri%2C_in_New_Delhi_on_February_23%2C_2009_%281%29.jpg/250px-thumbnail.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Lord_Shiva_devotees_offering_milk,_flowers,_fruits_and_bel_leaves_on_a_Shivaling_for_seeking_divine_blessings,_in_a_city_temple_at_the_celebration_of_Maha_Shivaratri,_in_New_Delhi_on_February_23,_2009_\(1\).jpg) A family worshipping [Shiva Linga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva_Linga "Shiva Linga") during fasting period. ## See also \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=22 "Edit section: See also")\] - [Pradosha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pradosha "Pradosha") - [Rudraksha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rudraksha "Rudraksha") - [Vibhuti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vibhuti "Vibhuti") - [Rudra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rudra "Rudra") - [Linga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linga "Linga") - [Rudrabhisheka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rudrabhisheka "Rudrabhisheka") - [Jalabhisheka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jalabhisheka "Jalabhisheka") ## References \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=23 "Edit section: References")\] 1. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-SK_1-0)** Stephen Knapp (2012), Hindu Gods & Goddesses, Jaico Publishing House, India, [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [9788184953664](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/9788184953664 "Special:BookSources/9788184953664") , page 110 2. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-Melton2011p541_2-0)** Melton, J. Gordon (2011). [*Religious Celebrations: An Encyclopedia of Holidays, Festivals, Solemn Observances, and Spiritual Commemorations*](https://books.google.com/books?id=lD_2J7W_2hQC). ABC-CLIO. pp. 541–542\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-59884-206-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-59884-206-7 "Special:BookSources/978-1-59884-206-7") . 3. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-3)** [15th February 2026, Sunday](https://www.drikpanchang.com/festivals/maha-shivaratri/maha-shivaratri-date-time.html?year=2026) 4. ^ [***a***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-:0_4-0) [***b***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-:0_4-1) Lochtefeld, James G. (2002). [*The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Hinduism: N-Z*](https://books.google.com/books?id=GnmPzgEACAAJ). Rosen. p. 637. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-8239-3180-4](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-8239-3180-4 "Special:BookSources/978-0-8239-3180-4") . 5. ^ [***a***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-JonesRyan2006p269_5-0) [***b***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-JonesRyan2006p269_5-1) [***c***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-JonesRyan2006p269_5-2) [***d***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-JonesRyan2006p269_5-3) [***e***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-JonesRyan2006p269_5-4) Jones, Constance; D. Ryan, James (2006). [*Encyclopedia of Hinduism*](https://books.google.com/books?id=OgMmceadQ3gC&pg=PA269). Infobase Publishing. p. 269. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-8160-7564-5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-8160-7564-5 "Special:BookSources/978-0-8160-7564-5") . 6. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-6)** Coulter, Charles Russell; Turner, Patricia (6 December 2021). [*Encyclopedia of Ancient Deities*](https://books.google.com/books?id=QEJUEAAAQBAJ&dq=shivaratri+wedding&pg=PA428). McFarland. p. 428. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-7864-9179-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-7864-9179-7 "Special:BookSources/978-0-7864-9179-7") . 7. ^ [***a***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-Dhoraisingam35_7-0) [***b***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-Dhoraisingam35_7-1) [***c***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-Dhoraisingam35_7-2) Dhoraisingam, Samuel S. (2006). [*Peranakan Indians of Singapore and Melaka*](https://books.google.com/books?id=QHwcAgAAQBAJ&pg=PA35). Institute of Southeast Asian Studies. p. 35. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-981-230-346-2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-981-230-346-2 "Special:BookSources/978-981-230-346-2") . 8. ^ [***a***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-auto1_8-0) [***b***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-auto1_8-1) Om Prakash Juneja; Chandra Mohan (1990). [*Ambivalence: Studies in Canadian Literature*](https://books.google.com/books?id=39FHAAAAYAAJ). Allied. pp. 156–157\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-7023-109-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-7023-109-7 "Special:BookSources/978-81-7023-109-7") . 9. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-brunn402_9-0)** Brunn, Stanley D. (2015). [*The Changing World Religion Map: Sacred Places, Identities, Practices and Politics*](https://books.google.com/books?id=CGh-BgAAQBAJ&pg=PA403). Springer. pp. 402–403\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-94-017-9376-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-94-017-9376-6 "Special:BookSources/978-94-017-9376-6") . 10. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-maitra125_10-0)** Maitra, Asim (1986). [*Religious Life of the Brahman: A Case Study of Maithil Brahmans*](https://books.google.com/books?id=f3LXAAAAMAAJ). Munshilal. p. 125. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-210-0171-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-210-0171-7 "Special:BookSources/978-81-210-0171-7") . 11. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-11)** Allard, Syama (10 March 2021). ["5 things to know about Maha Shivaratri"](https://hinduamerican.org/blog/5-things-to-know-about-maha-shivaratri/). *Hindu American Foundation*. Retrieved 12 February 2026. 12. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-12)** TEMPORAL CONCEPTS and PERCEPTION OF TIME in the Ancient Orient. Proceedings of the Workshop “Calendar Festivals of the Ancient Orient” held in St. Petersburg 20th–21th November 2020 edited by Vladimir V. Emelianov St. Petersburg 2021 13. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-13)** ["Lunar months - Purnimanta and Amanta system"](https://www.ekohumm.com/lunar-months-purnimanta-and-amanta-system). *ekohumm.com*. Retrieved 12 February 2026. 14. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-14)** ["MahaShivratri-Herath: The cultural code of Kashmir"](https://hindupost.in/dharma-religion/mahashivratri-herath-the-cultural-code-of-kashmir/). *hindupost.in*. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20240307095524/https://hindupost.in/dharma-religion/mahashivratri-herath-the-cultural-code-of-kashmir/) from the original on 7 March 2024. Retrieved 14 February 2026. 15. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-15)** ["Shivratri Puja (Vatak Puja / Herath Puja)"](https://www.kashmiribooks.com/kashmiri-shivratri-puja-vatak-puja-herath-puja-book). *www.kashmiribooks.com*. Retrieved 14 February 2026. 16. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-16)** Yadav, Puja (20 February 2020). ["Maha Shivratri 2020: Date, day, significance, puja time, importance and why celebrate"](https://www.indiatoday.in/information/story/maha-shivratri-2020-date-day-significance-puja-time-importance-and-why-celebrate-1648338-2020-02-20). *India Today*. Retrieved 15 February 2026. 17. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-17)** PTI (9 March 2013). ["Know why Mahashivratri is celebrated"](https://www.indiatvnews.com/news/india/know-why-mahashivratri-is-celebrated-20645.html). *[India TV News](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India_TV_News "India TV News")*. Retrieved 26 February 2026. 18. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-18)** SIVA PURANAM Published by Sri L.V. Subrahmanyam, I.A.S., Executive Officer, T.T.Devasthanams, Tirupati and Printed at T.T.D. Press, Tirupati. 19. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-19)** [*Kakawin Siwaratri Kalpa*](http://archive.org/details/kakawin-siwaratri-kalpa). 20. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-20)** ["Maha Shivratri 2025: Significance, History & Rituals of the Great Nigh"](https://gayatriheritage.com/blogs/our-blogs/maha-shivratri-2024-significance-history-rituals-of-the-great-night-of-shiva). *Gayatri Heritage*. 31 January 2025. 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Retrieved 18 February 2026. `{{cite web}}`: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list ([link](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:CS1_maint:_multiple_names:_authors_list "Category:CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list")) 23. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-23)** Srinivasan, Doris (1975). ["The So-Called Proto-śiva Seal from Mohenjo-Daro: An Iconological Assessment"](https://www.jstor.org/stable/20062578). *Archives of Asian Art*. **29**: 47–58\. [ISSN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISSN_\(identifier\) "ISSN (identifier)") [0066-6637](https://search.worldcat.org/issn/0066-6637). [JSTOR](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/JSTOR_\(identifier\) "JSTOR (identifier)") [20062578](https://www.jstor.org/stable/20062578). 24. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-24)** Possehl, Gregory L. "Indus folklore: an unknown story on some Harappan objects." *Intercultural relations between South and Southwest Asia. Studies in commemoration of ECL during Caspers (1934–1996). BAR International Series* (1826): 140-144. 25. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-25)** ["Shiva"](https://web.archive.org/web/20230215001305/https://www.ultindia.org/tm_magazine/7204shiva.html). *The Theosophical Movement* (reprint). **72** (4). TEOS, Theosophy Company, Mumbai: 137. 2002 \[February 1962\]. Archived from [the original](http://www.ultindia.org/tm_magazine/7204shiva.html) on 15 February 2023. Retrieved 21 February 2020. 26. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-26)** ["Monthly Shivratri Fast - How to dp Masik ShivaRatri Fasting"](https://pujayagna.com/blogs/hindu-fasting-days/masik-shivratri). *Eshwar Bhakti*. Retrieved 14 February 2026. 27. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-27)** A, Bhavya (26 February 2025). ["Maha Shivratri"](https://cohna.org/maha-shivratri/). *Coalition of Hindus of North America*. Retrieved 14 February 2026. 28. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-28)** Raj, Selva J.; Harman, William P. (1 February 2012). [*Dealing with Deities: The Ritual Vow in South Asia*](https://books.google.com/books?id=h80yOTwlAUcC&q=vigil&pg=PA147). State University of New York Press. 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Doing theology with the festivals and customs of Asia, Singapore. pp 59-68 32. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-32)** ["Mahashivratri 2022: 5 Foods You Can Have While Observing Mahashivratri Vrat (Fast)"](https://www.ndtv.com/food/mahashivratri-2018-5-foods-you-can-have-while-observing-mahashivratri-vrat-fast-1811808). 33. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-33)** ["Maha Shivaratri Fasting Rules and Vrat Vidhi"](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/religion/rituals-puja/maha-shivaratri-fasting-rules-and-vrat-vidhi/articleshow/81434471.cms). *The Times of India*. 11 March 2021. 34. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-34)** ["Maha Shivaratri 2023: What to eat if you are fasting"](https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/bangalore/others/maha-shivaratri-2023-what-to-eat-if-you-are-fasting/articleshow/98028141.cms). 35. ^ [***a***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-:1_35-0) [***b***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-:1_35-1) ["Cleanse your body this Maha Shivratri"](https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/recipe/cleanse-your-body-this-maha-shivratri-101646031274662.html). 28 February 2022. 36. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-36)** ["Mahashivratri 2023 fasting rules: Dos and don'ts to keep in mind while worshipping Lord Shiva"](https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/festivals/mahashivratri-2023-fasting-rules-dos-and-don-ts-to-keep-in-mind-while-worshipping-lord-shiva-101676468072865.html). *Hindustan Times*. 15 February 2023. 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"BIOREMEDIATION OF TEMPLE WASTES (NIRMALAYA) BY EMPLOYING EUDRILUS EUGENIAE." 41. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-41)** Mandal, Ushashee, et al. "Significance of Utilizing Plant Resource in Maha Shivratri For The Adoration of Lord Shiva, Odisha, India." *Purakala, 31 (33)* (2020): 0971-2143. 42. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-42)** Ayub, Humeera, Touseef Hussain Trak, and Ravi Upadhayay. "Inventorization of Ethnosacred plants of Kishtwar district." *World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research* 3.1 (2013): 1160. 43. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-43)** Sharma, L. R. (2005). [*Quality of Life in the Himalayan Region*](https://books.google.com/books?id=oThuRcNAaN4C&dq=shivaratri+fair&pg=PA164). Indus Publishing. 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[ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-19-803934-1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-19-803934-1 "Special:BookSources/978-0-19-803934-1") . 49. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-49)** Pugh McCutchen, Brenda (2006). [*Teaching Dance as Art in Education*](https://books.google.com/books?id=C0yjXGJ3EEoC). Human Kinetics. p. 450. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-7360-5188-0](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-7360-5188-0 "Special:BookSources/978-0-7360-5188-0") . 50. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-50)** Shobita Punja (1999). [*Khajuraho: the first thousand years*](https://books.google.com/books?id=CwfWAAAAMAAJ). Penguin Books. pp. 71–74\. 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"NARRATIVES OF A SACRED MOUNTAIN. ARUNACHALA, TAMIL NADU, SOUTH OF INDIA." *URBAN DESIGN AND PLANNING*: 17. 54. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-54)** admin (18 October 2015). ["FAIRS AND FESTIVALS AT THIRUVITHAMCODE SHIVA AND VISHNU TEMPLES – AN OVERVIEW \| rjisacjournal.com"](https://www.rjisacjournal.com/fairs-and-festivals-at-thiruvithamcode-shiva-and-vishnu-temples-an-overview/). Retrieved 7 March 2026. 55. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-55)** ["Shiv Sena Punjab organises grand Shobha Yatra on Mahashivratri"](https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/jalandhar/shiv-sena-punjab-organises-grand-shobha-yatra-on-mahashivratri/). *The Tribune*. Retrieved 15 February 2026. 56. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-56)** Leuthold, Steven (2010). [*Cross-Cultural Issues in Art: Frames for Understanding*](https://books.google.com/books?id=z9GsAgAAQBAJ&pg=PA142). Routledge. pp. 142–143\. 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(eds.), ["Four Balinese Illustrations of the Tale of Lubdhaka"](https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-011-9429-7_3), *Śiwarātrikalpa of MPU Tanakuṅ: An Old Javanese poem, its Indian source and Balinese illustrations*, Dordrecht: Springer Netherlands, pp. 215–308, [doi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doi_\(identifier\) "Doi (identifier)"):[10\.1007/978-94-011-9429-7\_3](https://doi.org/10.1007%2F978-94-011-9429-7_3), [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-94-011-9429-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-94-011-9429-7 "Special:BookSources/978-94-011-9429-7") , retrieved 25 February 2026 `{{citation}}`: CS1 maint: work parameter with ISBN ([link](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:CS1_maint:_work_parameter_with_ISBN "Category:CS1 maint: work parameter with ISBN")) 65. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-65)** Siva Purana - English Translation - J. L. Shastri - Part 3. Pg. 1431 - 1439 66. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-66)** ["Nepali Army \| नेपाली सेना"](https://www.nepalarmy.mil.np/viewnews/379). 67. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-67)** PTI. ["About 10 lakh visitors expected to throng Pashupatinath temple on Maha Shivratri"](https://www.deccanherald.com/india/about-10-lakh-visitors-expected-to-throng-pashupatinath-temple-on-maha-shivratri-2928017). *Deccan Herald*. Retrieved 16 September 2024. 68. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-68)** Gondal, N. A., and S. Arif. "The Dying Temples of Hindus and Sikhs in Potohar Plateau: A Case." (2021): 241-250. 69. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-69)** ["150-year-old Hindu temple under threat in Karachi"](https://www.indiatoday.in/world/pakistan/story/shri-ratneshwar-mahadev-temple-karachi-overpass-pakistani-hindus-hrcp-187674-2014-04-04). *Indiatoday*. 4 April 2014. Retrieved 28 August 2020. 70. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-Shazia_Hasan_70-0)** Shazia Hasan (7 March 2016). ["Hindus celebrate Maha Shivratri festival in Karachi"](https://www.dawn.com/news/1243973). *Dawn*. Retrieved 28 August 2020. 71. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-71)** ["Trinidad Hindus observe Shivratri amid Carnival Celebration"](https://web.archive.org/web/20160921150332/https://repeatingislands.com/2014/03/01/trinidad-hindus-observe-shivratri-amid-carnival-celebration/). Repeating Islands. 2 March 2014. Archived from [the original](https://repeatingislands.com/2014/03/01/trinidad-hindus-observe-shivratri-amid-carnival-celebration/) on 21 September 2016. Retrieved 31 August 2016. 72. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-72)** ["PM observes Maha Shivaratri with overnight temple visits"](https://trinidadexpress.com/newsextra/pm-observes-maha-shivaratri-with-overnight-temple-visits/article_ab5e34c0-ec4b-4588-ac29-f085c19c5c4c.html). *Trinidad Express Newspapers*. 16 February 2026. Retrieved 7 March 2026. 73. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-73)** Pattnaik, Jajati K.; Panda, Chandan K. (30 June 2022). ["INDIAN DIASPORA IN OMAN"](https://doi.org/10.37867/te1402116). *Towards Excellence*: 1401–1414\. [doi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doi_\(identifier\) "Doi (identifier)"):[10\.37867/te1402116](https://doi.org/10.37867%2Fte1402116). [ISSN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISSN_\(identifier\) "ISSN (identifier)") [0974-035X](https://search.worldcat.org/issn/0974-035X). 74. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-74)** Mehta, Sandhya Rao (2 October 2022). ["Strategic Belonging: Hindu Identity and Performance in Oman"](https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/25765949.2022.2151741). *Asian Journal of Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies*. **16** (4): 402–416\. [doi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doi_\(identifier\) "Doi (identifier)"):[10\.1080/25765949.2022.2151741](https://doi.org/10.1080%2F25765949.2022.2151741). [ISSN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISSN_\(identifier\) "ISSN (identifier)") [2576-5949](https://search.worldcat.org/issn/2576-5949). 75. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-75)** Markovits, Claude (22 June 2000). [*The Global World of Indian Merchants, 1750–1947: Traders of Sind from Bukhara to Panama*](https://books.google.ca/books?hl=en&lr=&id=M2vu7Odjz6kC&oi=fnd&pg=PP1&dq=The+Global+World+of+Indian+Merchants,+1750%E2%80%931947:+Traders+of+Sind+from+...&ots=G-9UBfwKy6&sig=SeI6muYSU9Sx1PwSoE9XOYbvJ0k#v=onepage&q=The%20Global%20World%20of%20Indian%20Merchants,%201750%E2%80%931947:%20Traders%20of%20Sind%20from%20...&f=false). Cambridge University Press. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-139-43127-9](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-139-43127-9 "Special:BookSources/978-1-139-43127-9") . 76. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-76)** ["PM Narendra Modi visits Shiva temple in Oman"](https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/pm-narendra-modi-visits-shiva-temple-in-oman/articleshow/62884919.cms?from=mdr). *The Economic Times*. 12 February 2018. [ISSN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISSN_\(identifier\) "ISSN (identifier)") [0013-0389](https://search.worldcat.org/issn/0013-0389). Retrieved 7 March 2026. 77. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-77)** ["The sacred lake of Ganga Talao"](https://www.cnn.com/2016/05/03/africa/maha-shivaratri-mauritius/index.html). CNN. 3 May 2016. Retrieved 12 June 2018. 78. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-78)** <https://thebalisun.com/incredible-hindu-festival-in-java-is-an-essential-add-on-adventure-for-bali-tourists/> ## External links \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=24 "Edit section: External links")\] - [![Wikimedia Commons logo](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/4a/Commons-logo.svg/20px-Commons-logo.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Commons-logo.svg) Media related to [Shivaratri](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Shivaratri "commons:Category:Shivaratri") at Wikimedia Commons - [Maha Shivaratri celebrations in the USA by The Pluralism Project](http://pluralism.org/religions/hinduism/the-hindu-experience/the-great-night-of-shiva/) - [Mahashivratri images](https://www.ibc24.in/maha-shivratri-2022/full-hd-shivratri-images-780887.html) | [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Shaivism_topics "Template:Shaivism topics") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Shaivism_topics "Template talk:Shaivism topics") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Shaivism_topics "Special:EditPage/Template:Shaivism topics")[Shaivism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaivism "Shaivism") | | | |---|---|---| | **[History](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Shaivism "History of Shaivism")** | | | | [Deities](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Forms_of_Shiva "Category:Forms of Shiva") | [Shiva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva "Shiva") [Bhairava](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhairava "Bhairava") [Dakshinamurti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dakshinamurti "Dakshinamurti") [Harihara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harihara "Harihara") [Ishana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ishana "Ishana") [Nataraja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nataraja "Nataraja") [Sadyojata](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sadyojata "Sadyojata") [Tatpurusha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tatpurusha "Tatpurusha") [Vamadeva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vamadeva "Vamadeva") [Shakti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakti "Shakti") [Ardhanarishvara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ardhanarishvara "Ardhanarishvara") [Sati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sati_\(Hindu_goddess\) "Sati (Hindu goddess)") [Parvati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parvati "Parvati") [Ganesha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesha "Ganesha") [Kartikeya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kartikeya "Kartikeya") [Devasena](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devasena "Devasena") [Valli](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valli "Valli") [Nandi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nandi_\(mythology\) "Nandi (mythology)") | [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/21/India_statue_of_nataraja.jpg/120px-India_statue_of_nataraja.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:India_statue_of_nataraja.jpg) | | [Texts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religious_text "Religious text") | *[Shvetashvatara Upanishad](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shvetashvatara_Upanishad "Shvetashvatara Upanishad")* *[Shivarahasya Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shivarahasya_Purana "Shivarahasya Purana")* *[Shiva Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva_Purana "Shiva Purana")* *[Shiva Sutras of Vasugupta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva_Sutras_of_Vasugupta "Shiva Sutras of Vasugupta")* *[Tirumurai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tirumurai "Tirumurai")* | | | [Mantra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mantra "Mantra")/[Stotra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stotra "Stotra") | *[Om Namah Shivaya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Om_Namah_Shivaya "Om Namah Shivaya")* *[Rudrashtakam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rudrashtakam "Rudrashtakam")* *[Mahāmrityunjaya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mah%C4%81mrityunjaya_Mantra "Mahāmrityunjaya Mantra")* *[Shiva Tandava](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva_Tandava_Stotra "Shiva Tandava Stotra")* *[Sahasranama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva_Sahasranama "Shiva Sahasranama")* *[Chalisa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiv_Chalisa "Shiv Chalisa")* *[Shri Rudram](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shri_Rudram "Shri Rudram")* *[Shiva Mahimna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva_Mahimna_Stotra "Shiva Mahimna Stotra")* *[Hara Hara Mahadeva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hara_Hara_Mahadeva "Hara Hara Mahadeva")* | | | Traditions | [Shaiva Siddhanta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaiva_Siddhanta "Shaiva Siddhanta") [Pashupata Shaivism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pashupata_Shaivism "Pashupata Shaivism") [Kapalika](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kapalika "Kapalika") [Aghori](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aghori "Aghori") [Kaula](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaula_\(Hinduism\) "Kaula (Hinduism)") [Trika Shaivism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trika "Trika") [Veera Shaivism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lingayatism "Lingayatism") [Siddha Siddhanta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siddha_Siddhanta "Siddha Siddhanta") [Shiva Advaita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva_Advaita "Shiva Advaita") [Shaiva Smartas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smarta_tradition "Smarta tradition") | | | Festivals and observances | [Kanwar Yatra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kanwar_Yatra "Kanwar Yatra") [Maha Shivaratri]() [Pradosha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pradosha "Pradosha") [Shiva Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva_Puja "Shiva Puja") | | | [Shiva temples](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva_temple "Shiva temple") | | | | | | | | [Panch Kedar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panch_Kedar "Panch Kedar") | [Kedarnath](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kedarnath_Temple "Kedarnath Temple") [Tungnath](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tungnath "Tungnath") [Rudranath](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rudranath "Rudranath") [Madhyamaheshwar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madhyamaheshwar "Madhyamaheshwar") [Kalpeshwar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kalpeshwar "Kalpeshwar") | | | [Pancha Sabhai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pancha_Sabhai "Pancha Sabhai") | [Rathinam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_Vadaranyeswarar_Temple "Sri Vadaranyeswarar Temple") [Pon](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nataraja_Temple,_Chidambaram "Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram") [Velli](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meenakshi_Temple "Meenakshi Temple") [Thamiram](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nellaiappar_Temple "Nellaiappar Temple") [Chitiram](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thirukutralam "Thirukutralam") | | | [Pancha Bhuta Sthalam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pancha_Bhuta_Sthalam "Pancha Bhuta Sthalam") | [Chidambaram (Ether)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nataraja_Temple,_Chidambaram "Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram") [Tirukalahasti (Air)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Srikalahasteeswara_temple "Srikalahasteeswara temple") [Tiruvannamalai (Fire)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arunachalesvara_Temple "Arunachalesvara Temple") [Tiruvanaikaval (Water)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jambukeswarar_Temple,_Thiruvanaikaval "Jambukeswarar Temple, Thiruvanaikaval") [Kanchipuram (Earth)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ekambareswarar_Temple_\(Kanchipuram\) "Ekambareswarar Temple (Kanchipuram)") | | | [Jyotirlingas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jyotirlinga "Jyotirlinga") | [Bhimashankar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhimashankar_Temple "Bhimashankar Temple") [Grishneshwar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grishneshwar_Temple "Grishneshwar Temple") [Kedarnath](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kedarnath_Temple "Kedarnath Temple") [Mallikarjun](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mallikarjuna_Jyotirlinga "Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga") [Mahakaleshwar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahakaleshwar_Jyotirlinga "Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga") [Nageshvar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nageshvara_Jyotirlinga "Nageshvara Jyotirlinga") [Omkareshwar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omkareshwar_Temple "Omkareshwar Temple") [Ramanathaswamy](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramanathaswamy_Temple "Ramanathaswamy Temple") [Somnath](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Somnath_temple "Somnath temple") [Trimbakeshwar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trimbakeshwar_Shiva_Temple "Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple") [Vaidyanath](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaidyanath_Jyotirlinga "Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga") [Vishwanath](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kashi_Vishwanath_Temple "Kashi Vishwanath Temple") | | | Others | [Amarnath](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amarnath_Temple "Amarnath Temple") [Brihadeeswarar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brihadisvara_Temple,_Thanjavur "Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur") [Kailash Mansarovar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Manasarovar "Lake Manasarovar") [Katas Raj](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Katas_Raj_Temples "Katas Raj Temples") [Lingaraja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lingaraja_Temple "Lingaraja Temple") [Meenakshi Sundareshwarar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meenakshi_Temple "Meenakshi Temple") [Tiruchengode](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ardhanareeswarar_temple,_Tiruchengode "Ardhanareeswarar temple, Tiruchengode") [Vadakkum Nathan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vadakkunnathan_Temple "Vadakkunnathan Temple") | | | Related topics | [Lingam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lingam "Lingam") [Rasalingam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rasalingam "Rasalingam") [Siddha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siddha "Siddha") [Vibhuti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vibhuti "Vibhuti") [Other names](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva_Sahasranama "Shiva Sahasranama") | | | ![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/9/96/Symbol_category_class.svg/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png)[Category](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Shaivism "Category:Shaivism") [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/e/e2/Symbol_portal_class.svg/20px-Symbol_portal_class.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Symbol_portal_class.svg "Portal")[Portal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Hinduism "Portal:Hinduism") | | | | [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Shaktism "Template:Shaktism") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Shaktism "Template talk:Shaktism") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Shaktism "Special:EditPage/Template:Shaktism")[Shaktism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaktism "Shaktism") | | | |---|---|---| | [History](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Shaktism "History of Shaktism") | | | | [Devi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devi "Devi") | [Mahadevi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahadevi "Mahadevi") [Saraswati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saraswati "Saraswati") [Lakshmi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi "Lakshmi") [Parvati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parvati "Parvati") [Sati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sati_\(Hindu_goddess\) "Sati (Hindu goddess)") [Shakti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakti "Shakti") [Durga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga "Durga") [Navadurga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navadurga "Navadurga") [Mahakali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahakali "Mahakali") [Bhadrakali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhadrakali "Bhadrakali") [Radha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radha "Radha") [Sita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sita "Sita") *[More](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Hindu_goddesses "Category:Hindu goddesses")* | [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/56/Debi_Durga_Sculpture_by_Sandalwood_Murshidabad_WB_30_01_2018.jpg/120px-Debi_Durga_Sculpture_by_Sandalwood_Murshidabad_WB_30_01_2018.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Debi_Durga_Sculpture_by_Sandalwood_Murshidabad_WB_30_01_2018.jpg) | | [Matrikas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matrikas "Matrikas") | [Brahmani](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahmani_\(Matrika\) "Brahmani (Matrika)") [Maheshvari](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maheshvari "Maheshvari") [Kaumari](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaumari "Kaumari") [Vaishnavi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaishnavi_\(Matrika_goddess\) "Vaishnavi (Matrika goddess)") [Varahi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varahi "Varahi") [Indrani](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indrani_\(Matrika\) "Indrani (Matrika)") [Chamunda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chamunda "Chamunda") | | | [Mahavidya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahavidya "Mahavidya") | [Kali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali "Kali") [Tara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tara_\(Mahavidya\) "Tara (Mahavidya)") [Tripura Sundari](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tripura_Sundari "Tripura Sundari") [Bhuvaneshvari](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhuvaneshvari "Bhuvaneshvari") [Bhairavi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhairavi "Bhairavi") [Chhinnamasta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chhinnamasta "Chhinnamasta") [Dhumavati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhumavati "Dhumavati") [Bagalamukhi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bagalamukhi "Bagalamukhi") [Matangi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matangi "Matangi") [Kamalatmika](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kamalatmika "Kamalatmika") | | | [Navadurga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navadurga "Navadurga") | [Shailaputri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shailaputri "Shailaputri") [Brahmacharini](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahmacharini "Brahmacharini") [Chandraghanta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandraghanta "Chandraghanta") [Kushmanda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kushmanda "Kushmanda") [Skandamata](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skandamata "Skandamata") [Katyayani](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Katyayani "Katyayani") [Kalaratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kalaratri "Kalaratri") [Mahagauri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahagauri "Mahagauri") [Siddhidhatri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siddhidhatri "Siddhidhatri") | | | [Shakta pithas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakta_pithas "Shakta pithas") | [Bimala](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vimala_Temple "Vimala Temple") [Kalighat](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kalighat_Kali_Temple "Kalighat Kali Temple") [Kamakhya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kamakhya_Temple "Kamakhya Temple") [Taratarini](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taratarini_Temple "Taratarini Temple") [Tulja Bhavani](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tulja_Bhavani_Temple "Tulja Bhavani Temple") [Mahalakshmi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahalakshmi_Temple,_Kolhapur "Mahalakshmi Temple, Kolhapur") *[More...](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Shakta_pithas "Category:Shakta pithas")* | | | [Texts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_texts "Hindu texts") | [Devi Mahatmya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devi_Mahatmya "Devi Mahatmya") [Devi-Bhagavata Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devi-Bhagavata_Purana "Devi-Bhagavata Purana") [Kalika Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kalika_Purana "Kalika Purana") [Shakta Upanishads](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakta_Upanishads "Shakta Upanishads") [Sita Upanishad](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sita_Upanishad "Sita Upanishad") [Tripuratapini Upanishad](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tripuratapini_Upanishad "Tripuratapini Upanishad") [Devi Upanishad](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devi_Upanishad "Devi Upanishad") [Tripura Upanishad](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tripura_Upanishad "Tripura Upanishad") [Bhavana Upanishad](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhavana_Upanishad "Bhavana Upanishad") [Saubhagyalakshmi Upanishad](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saubhagyalakshmi_Upanishad "Saubhagyalakshmi Upanishad") [Sarasvati-rahasya Upanishad](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarasvati-rahasya_Upanishad "Sarasvati-rahasya Upanishad") [Lalita Sahasranama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lalita_Sahasranama "Lalita Sahasranama") [Saundarya Lahari](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saundarya_Lahari "Saundarya Lahari") | | | Other Texts | [Abirami Antati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abirami_Antati "Abirami Antati") | | | Regional variations | [Caribbean Shaktism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caribbean_Shaktism "Caribbean Shaktism") | | | [Hinduism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism "Hinduism") [Tantra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tantra "Tantra") | | | | [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Sindhi_festivals "Template:Sindhi festivals") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Sindhi_festivals "Template talk:Sindhi festivals") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Sindhi_festivals "Special:EditPage/Template:Sindhi festivals")[Festivals in the Sindhi calendar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Sindhi_festivals "List of Sindhi festivals") | | |---|---| | Major festivals | [Sindhi Cultural Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sindhi_Cultural_Day "Sindhi Cultural Day") [Lal Loi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lal_Loi "Lal Loi") [Makar Sankrant](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Makar_Sankranti "Makar Sankranti") [Basant Panchmi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vasant_Panchami "Vasant Panchami") [Shivratri]() [Holi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holi "Holi") Dhudiyo Ram Navami Akhan Teej Chaliho Starts [Guru Purnima](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Purnima "Guru Purnima") Guru Purnima Gogio - Nag Panchmi Chaliho Ends Rakhadi Teejadi Thadadi [Krishna Janmashtami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna_Janmashtami "Krishna Janmashtami") Janmashtami [Ganesh Chaturthi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesh_Chaturthi "Ganesh Chaturthi") Shradh Starts Mahalaxmi \[Sagido Chhodinin\] Shradh Ends [Navratra Starts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navratri "Navratri") [Navratra Ends](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navratri "Navratri") Dashero Dhan Teras Diyari - Laxmi Pooja Gop Ashtami Guru Nanak Jayanti Geeta Jayanti [Diyarri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali") [Krishna Janmashtami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna_Janmashtami "Krishna Janmashtami") [Maha Shivaratri]() [Makar Sankranti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Makar_Sankranti "Makar Sankranti") [Navratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navratri "Navratri") [Hanuman Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanuman_Jayanti "Hanuman Jayanti") | | [Sindhi New Year](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_New_Year%27s_days "Indian New Year's days") | [Chetri Chand](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cheti_Chand "Cheti Chand") | | Literary Events | [Sindh Literature Festival](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sindh_Literature_Festival "Sindh Literature Festival") [Hyderabad Literary Festival](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyderabad_Literature_Festival,_Pakistan "Hyderabad Literature Festival, Pakistan") | | Holy days | Sindhi Muslims Holidays [Eid al-Fitr](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Fitr "Eid al-Fitr") [Eid al-Adha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Adha "Eid al-Adha") | | Lists | [List of Sindhi festivals](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Sindhi_festivals "List of Sindhi festivals") | | ![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/9/96/Symbol_category_class.svg/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png) [Sindhi Culture](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Sindhi_culture "Category:Sindhi culture") ![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/9/96/Symbol_category_class.svg/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png) [Sindhi festivals](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Sindhi_festivals "Category:Sindhi festivals") ![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/9/96/Symbol_category_class.svg/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png) [Sindhi Hindu festivals](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Hindu_festivals "Category:Hindu festivals") | | | [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Hindu_festivals "Template:Hindu festivals") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Hindu_festivals "Template talk:Hindu festivals") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Hindu_festivals "Special:EditPage/Template:Hindu festivals")[![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b7/Om_symbol.svg/20px-Om_symbol.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism "Hinduism") [Festivals in the Hindu calendar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Hindu_festivals "List of Hindu festivals") | | |---|---| | Major festivals | [Ayudha Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayudha_Puja "Ayudha Puja") [Chhath](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chhath "Chhath") [Diwali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali") [Durga Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_Puja "Durga Puja") [Ganesh Chaturthi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesh_Chaturthi "Ganesh Chaturthi") [Holi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holi "Holi") [Krishna Janmashtami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna_Janmashtami "Krishna Janmashtami") [Maha Shivaratri]() [Navaratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navaratri "Navaratri") [Rama Navami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rama_Navami "Rama Navami") [Thaipusam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thaipusam "Thaipusam") [Vijayadashami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vijayadashami "Vijayadashami") | | [Harvest festivals](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harvest_festival "Harvest festival") | [Bandna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandna "Bandna") [Bhogi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhogi "Bhogi") [Lohri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lohri "Lohri") [Maghi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maghi "Maghi") [Maghe Sankranti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maghe_Sankranti "Maghe Sankranti") [Makar Sankranti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Makar_Sankranti "Makar Sankranti") [Onam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Onam "Onam") [Pongal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pongal_\(festival\) "Pongal (festival)") [Kaanum Pongal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaanum_Pongal "Kaanum Pongal") [Mattu Pongal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mattu_Pongal "Mattu Pongal") [Pusnâ](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pusn%C3%A2 "Pusnâ") [Sohrai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sohrai "Sohrai") | | [New year's days](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_New_Year%27s_days "Indian New Year's days") | [Balipratipada](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balipratipada "Balipratipada") [Bohag Bihu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bohag_Bihu "Bohag Bihu") [Bisu Parba](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bisu_Parba "Bisu Parba") [Chaitra Navaratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navaratri#Chaitra_Navaratri "Navaratri") [Cheti Chand](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cheti_Chand "Cheti Chand") [Gudi Padwa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gudi_Padwa "Gudi Padwa") [Mesha Sankranti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mesha_Sankranti "Mesha Sankranti") [Mha Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mha_Puja "Mha Puja") [Jur Sital](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jur_Sital "Jur Sital") [Navreh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navreh "Navreh") [Nyepi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nyepi "Nyepi") [Maha Bishuba Sankranti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Bishuba_Sankranti "Maha Bishuba Sankranti") [Pahela Baishakh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pahela_Baishakh "Pahela Baishakh") [Puthandu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puthandu "Puthandu") [Sajibu Nongma Panba](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sajibu_Nongma_Panba "Sajibu Nongma Panba") [Sankranti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sankranti "Sankranti") [Ugadi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ugadi "Ugadi") [Vaisakhi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaisakhi "Vaisakhi") [Vishu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishu "Vishu") | | Other festivals | [Aadi Perukku](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aadi_Perukku "Aadi Perukku") [Balipratipada](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balipratipada "Balipratipada") [Bhai Dooj](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhai_Dooj "Bhai Dooj") [Datta Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datta_Jayanti "Datta Jayanti") [Dhanteras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhanteras "Dhanteras") [Gaura Parva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaura_\(festival\) "Gaura (festival)") [Govardhan Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Govardhan_Puja "Govardhan Puja") [Gowri Habba](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gowri_Habba "Gowri Habba") [Hanuman Jayanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanuman_Jayanti "Hanuman Jayanti") [Kali Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali_Puja "Kali Puja") [Karthika Deepam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karthika_Deepam "Karthika Deepam") [Karva Chauth](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karva_Chauth "Karva Chauth") [Kashmiri Hindu festivals](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kashmiri_Hindu_festivals "Kashmiri Hindu festivals") [Lakshmi Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi_Puja "Lakshmi Puja") [Kumbh Mela](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kumbh_Mela "Kumbh Mela") [Mahalakshmi Vrata](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahalakshmi_Vrata "Mahalakshmi Vrata") [Mahamaham](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahamaham "Mahamaham") [Mha Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mha_Puja "Mha Puja") [Panguni Uthiram](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panguni_Uthiram "Panguni Uthiram") [Pargat Diwas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pargat_Diwas "Pargat Diwas") [Raksha Bandhan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raksha_Bandhan "Raksha Bandhan") [Ratha-Yatra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ratha-Yatra "Ratha-Yatra") [Savitri Vrata](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Savitri_Vrata "Savitri Vrata") [Surasamharam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surasamharam "Surasamharam") [Swanti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swanti_\(festival\) "Swanti (festival)") [Teej](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teej "Teej") [Tihar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tihar_\(festival\) "Tihar (festival)") [Kukur Tihar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kukur_Tihar "Kukur Tihar") [Thiruvathira](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thiruvathira "Thiruvathira") [Tulasi Vivaha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tulasi_Vivaha "Tulasi Vivaha") [Vaikasi Visakam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaikasi_Visakam "Vaikasi Visakam") [Vishwakarma Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishwakarma_Puja "Vishwakarma Puja") | | Holy days | [Akshaya Tritiya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akshaya_Tritiya "Akshaya Tritiya") [Amalaka Ekadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amalaka_Ekadashi "Amalaka Ekadashi") [Amavasya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amavasya "Amavasya") [Ananta Chaturdashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ananta_Chaturdashi "Ananta Chaturdashi") [Ashadhi Ekadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ashadhi_Ekadashi "Ashadhi Ekadashi") [Guru Purnima](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Purnima "Guru Purnima") [Kamada Ekadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kamada_Ekadashi "Kamada Ekadashi") [Kartik Purnima](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kartik_Purnima "Kartik Purnima") [Naga Panchami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naga_Panchami "Naga Panchami") [Naraka Chaturdashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naraka_Chaturdashi "Naraka Chaturdashi") [Narali Purnima](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narali_Purnima "Narali Purnima") [Nirjala Ekadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nirjala_Ekadashi "Nirjala Ekadashi") [Pausha Putrada Ekadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pausha_Putrada_Ekadashi "Pausha Putrada Ekadashi") [Prabodhini Ekadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prabodhini_Ekadashi "Prabodhini Ekadashi") [Pradosha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pradosha "Pradosha") [Rishi Panchami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rishi_Panchami "Rishi Panchami") [Sankashti Chaturthi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sankashti_Chaturthi "Sankashti Chaturthi") [Sharad Purnima](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sharad_Purnima "Sharad Purnima") [Shayani Ekadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shayani_Ekadashi "Shayani Ekadashi") [Shravana Putrada Ekadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shravana_Putrada_Ekadashi "Shravana Putrada Ekadashi") [Vaikuntha Ekadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaikuntha_Ekadashi "Vaikuntha Ekadashi") [Varuthini Ekadashi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varuthini_Ekadashi "Varuthini Ekadashi") [Vasant Panchami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vasant_Panchami "Vasant Panchami") [Vat Purnima](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vat_Purnima "Vat Purnima") | | [Balinese festivals](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balinese_people "Balinese people") | [Galungan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galungan "Galungan") [Nyepi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nyepi "Nyepi") | | Holy periods | [Chaturmasya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chaturmasya "Chaturmasya") [Dakshinayana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dakshinayana "Dakshinayana") [Pitru Paksha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pitru_Paksha "Pitru Paksha") [Uttarayana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uttarayana "Uttarayana") | | ![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/9/96/Symbol_category_class.svg/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png) **[Hindu festivals](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Hindu_festivals "Category:Hindu festivals")** | | | [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Hindudharma "Template:Hindudharma") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Hindudharma "Template talk:Hindudharma") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Hindudharma "Special:EditPage/Template:Hindudharma")[![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/67/Aum_Om_red.svg/20px-Aum_Om_red.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aum "Aum") [Hinduism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism "Hinduism") [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/63/HinduSwastika.svg/20px-HinduSwastika.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:HinduSwastika.svg) topics | | | |---|---|---| | [Glossary](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glossary_of_Hinduism_terms "Glossary of Hinduism terms") Index [Timeline](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timeline_of_Hinduism "Timeline of Hinduism") | | | | [Philosophy](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_philosophy "Hindu philosophy") | | ![Hindu "Om" symbol](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/69/Aum_Om_navy_blue_circle_hollow_coral.svg/120px-Aum_Om_navy_blue_circle_hollow_coral.svg.png) | | | | | | [Concepts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glossary_of_Hinduism_terms "Glossary of Hinduism terms") | [Brahman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahman "Brahman") [Om](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Om "Om") [Ishvara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ishvara "Ishvara") [Atman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C4%80tman_\(Hinduism\) "Ātman (Hinduism)") [Maya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maya_\(religion\) "Maya (religion)") [Karma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karma "Karma") [Saṃsāra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sa%E1%B9%83s%C4%81ra "Saṃsāra") [Puruṣārthas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puru%E1%B9%A3%C4%81rtha "Puruṣārtha") [Dharma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dharma "Dharma") [Artha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artha "Artha") [Kama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kama "Kama") [Moksha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moksha "Moksha") [Niti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ethics_in_religion#Hindu_ethics "Ethics in religion") [Ahimsa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ahimsa "Ahimsa") [Asteya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Achourya "Achourya") [Aparigraha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aparigraha "Aparigraha") [Brahmacharya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahmacarya "Brahmacarya") [Satya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satya "Satya") [Dāna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D%C4%81na "Dāna") [Damah](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Temperance_\(virtue\)#Hinduism "Temperance (virtue)") [Dayā](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compassion#Hinduism "Compassion") [Akrodha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akrodha "Akrodha") | | | [Schools](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_philosophy "Hindu philosophy") | [Āstika](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C4%80stika_and_n%C4%81stika "Āstika and nāstika"): [Samkhya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samkhya "Samkhya") [Yoga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga "Yoga") [Nyaya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nyaya "Nyaya") [Vaisheshika](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaisheshika "Vaisheshika") [Mīmāṃsā](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C4%ABm%C4%81%E1%B9%83s%C4%81 "Mīmāṃsā") [Vedanta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vedanta "Vedanta") *[Svābhāvika Bhedābheda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sv%C4%81bh%C4%81vika_Bhed%C4%81bheda "Svābhāvika Bhedābheda")* *[Dvaita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dvaita_Vedanta "Dvaita Vedanta")* *[Advaita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Advaita_Vedanta "Advaita Vedanta")* *[Vishishtadvaita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishishtadvaita "Vishishtadvaita")* [Nāstika](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C4%80stika_and_n%C4%81stika "Āstika and nāstika"): [Charvaka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charvaka "Charvaka") | | | [Texts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_texts "Hindu texts") | | | | | | | | Classification | [Śruti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C5%9Aruti "Śruti") [Smṛti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sm%E1%B9%9Bti "Smṛti") | | | [Vedas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vedas "Vedas") | | | | | | | | [Rigveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rigveda "Rigveda") [Yajurveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yajurveda "Yajurveda") [Samaveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samaveda "Samaveda") [Atharvaveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atharvaveda "Atharvaveda") | | | | Divisions | [Samhita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vedic_chant "Vedic chant") [Brahmana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahmana "Brahmana") [Aranyaka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aranyaka "Aranyaka") | | | [Upanishads](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Upanishads "Upanishads") | [Aitareya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aitareya_Upanishad "Aitareya Upanishad") [Kaushitaki](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaushitaki_Upanishad "Kaushitaki Upanishad") [Brihadaranyaka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brihadaranyaka_Upanishad "Brihadaranyaka Upanishad") [Isha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isha_Upanishad "Isha Upanishad") [Taittiriya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taittiriya_Upanishad "Taittiriya Upanishad") [Katha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Katha_Upanishad "Katha Upanishad") [Maitrayaniya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maitrayaniya_Upanishad "Maitrayaniya Upanishad") [Shvetashvatara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shvetashvatara_Upanishad "Shvetashvatara Upanishad") [Chandogya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandogya_Upanishad "Chandogya Upanishad") [Kena](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kena_Upanishad "Kena Upanishad") [Mundaka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mundaka_Upanishad "Mundaka Upanishad") [Mandukya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandukya_Upanishad "Mandukya Upanishad") [Prashna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prashna_Upanishad "Prashna Upanishad") | | | [Upavedas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Upaveda "Upaveda") | [Ayurveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayurveda "Ayurveda") [Dhanurveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_martial_arts "Indian martial arts") [Natyaveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natya_Shastra "Natya Shastra") [Sthapatyaveda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_temple_architecture "Hindu temple architecture") | | | [Vedanga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vedanga "Vedanga") | [Shiksha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiksha "Shiksha") [Chandas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanskrit_prosody "Sanskrit prosody") [Vyākaraṇa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vy%C4%81kara%E1%B9%87a "Vyākaraṇa") [Nirukta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nirukta "Nirukta") [Kalpa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kalpa_\(Vedanga\) "Kalpa (Vedanga)") [Jyotisha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jyotisha "Jyotisha") | | | [Other](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Hindu_texts "List of Hindu texts") | [Bhagavad Gita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhagavad_Gita "Bhagavad Gita") [Agamas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agama_\(Hinduism\) "Agama (Hinduism)") [Itihasas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Itihasa-Purana "Itihasa-Purana") [Ramayana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramayana "Ramayana") [Mahabharata](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahabharata "Mahabharata") [Puranas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puranas "Puranas") [Minor Upanishads](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Upanishads#Classification "Upanishads") [Arthashastra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arthashastra "Arthashastra") [Nitisara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nitisara "Nitisara") [Dharmaśāstra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dharma%C5%9B%C4%81stra "Dharmaśāstra") [Manusmriti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manusmriti "Manusmriti") [Nāradasmṛti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/N%C4%81radasm%E1%B9%9Bti "Nāradasmṛti") [Yājñavalkya Smṛti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Y%C4%81j%C3%B1avalkya_Sm%E1%B9%9Bti "Yājñavalkya Smṛti") [Sutras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sutra "Sutra") [Stotras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stotra "Stotra") [Subhashita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subhashita "Subhashita") [Tantras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tantras_\(Hinduism\) "Tantras (Hinduism)") [Yoga Vasistha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga_Vasistha "Yoga Vasistha") *[Yoga Sutras of Patanjali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga_Sutras_of_Patanjali "Yoga Sutras of Patanjali")* | | | [Sangam literature](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sangam_literature "Sangam literature") | [Tirumurai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tirumurai "Tirumurai") [Divya Prabandham](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divya_Prabandham "Divya Prabandham") [Tirumurukāṟṟuppaṭai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tirumuruk%C4%81%E1%B9%9F%E1%B9%9Fuppa%E1%B9%ADai "Tirumurukāṟṟuppaṭai") [Thiruppugal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thiruppugal "Thiruppugal") [Thirukkural](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thirukkural "Thirukkural") [Kamba Ramayanam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kamba_Ramayanam "Kamba Ramayanam") [Five Great Epics](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Five_Great_Epics "Five Great Epics") [Eighteen Greater Texts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eighteen_Greater_Texts "Eighteen Greater Texts") [Eighteen Lesser Texts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eighteen_Lesser_Texts "Eighteen Lesser Texts") [Athichudi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Athichudi "Athichudi") [Iraiyanar Akapporul](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iraiyanar_Akapporul "Iraiyanar Akapporul") [Abhirami Antati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abhirami_Antati "Abhirami Antati") [Thiruvilaiyadal Puranam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thiruvilaiyadal_Puranam "Thiruvilaiyadal Puranam") [Vinayagar Agaval](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vinayagar_Agaval "Vinayagar Agaval") [Vedarthasamgraha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vedarthasamgraha "Vedarthasamgraha") | | | [Deities](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_deities "Hindu deities") | | | | | | | | [Gods](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deva_\(Hinduism\) "Deva (Hinduism)") | [Trimurti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trimurti "Trimurti") [Brahma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahma "Brahma") [Vishnu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishnu "Vishnu") [Shiva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva "Shiva") [Agni](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agni "Agni") [Dattatreya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dattatreya "Dattatreya") [Ganesha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesha "Ganesha") [Hanuman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanuman "Hanuman") [Indra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indra "Indra") [Kartikeya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kartikeya "Kartikeya") [Krishna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna "Krishna") [Rama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rama "Rama") [Surya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surya "Surya") [Varuna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varuna "Varuna") [Vayu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vayu "Vayu") [*more*](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Hindu_gods "Category:Hindu gods") | | | [Goddesses](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devi "Devi") | [Tridevi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tridevi "Tridevi") [Saraswati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saraswati "Saraswati") [Lakshmi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmi "Lakshmi") [Parvati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parvati "Parvati") [Bhumi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhumi_\(goddess\) "Bhumi (goddess)") [Durga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga "Durga") [Kali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali "Kali") [Mahavidya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahavidya "Mahavidya") [Matrika](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matrika "Matrika") [Radha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radha "Radha") [Rukmini](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rukmini "Rukmini") [Sati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sati_\(Hindu_goddess\) "Sati (Hindu goddess)") [Shakti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakti "Shakti") [Shashthi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shashthi "Shashthi") [Sita](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sita "Sita") [*more*](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Hindu_goddesses "Category:Hindu goddesses") | | | Practices | | | | | | | | [Worship](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Worship_in_Hinduism "Worship in Hinduism") | [Temple](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_temple "Hindu temple") [Murti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murti "Murti") [Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puja_\(Hinduism\) "Puja (Hinduism)") [Bhakti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhakti "Bhakti") [Japa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japa "Japa") [Bhajan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhajan "Bhajan") [Naivedhya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naivedhya "Naivedhya") [Yajna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yajna "Yajna") [Homa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homa_\(ritual\) "Homa (ritual)") [Tapas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tapas_\(Indian_religions\) "Tapas (Indian religions)") [Dhyāna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhy%C4%81na_in_Hinduism "Dhyāna in Hinduism") [Tirthatana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_pilgrimage_sites_in_India "Hindu pilgrimage sites in India") | | | [Sanskaras](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanskara_\(rite_of_passage\) "Sanskara (rite of passage)") | [Garbhadhana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garbhadhana "Garbhadhana") [Pumsavana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pumsavana "Pumsavana") [Simantonayana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pumsavana_Simantonayana "Pumsavana Simantonayana") [Jatakarma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jatakarma "Jatakarma") [Namakarana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/N%C4%81makara%E1%B9%87a "Nāmakaraṇa") [Nishkramana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nishkramana "Nishkramana") [Annaprashana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annaprashana "Annaprashana") [Chudakarana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chudakarana "Chudakarana") [Karnavedha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karnavedha "Karnavedha") [Vidyarambha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vidy%C4%81ra%E1%B9%83bha%E1%B9%83 "Vidyāraṃbhaṃ") [Upanayana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Upanayana "Upanayana") [Keshanta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keshanta "Keshanta") [Ritushuddhi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ritu_Kala_Samskaram "Ritu Kala Samskaram") [Samavartanam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samavartanam "Samavartanam") [Vivaha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vivaah "Vivaah") [Antyeshti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antyesti "Antyesti") | | | Varnashrama | [Varna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varna_\(Hinduism\) "Varna (Hinduism)") [Brahmin](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahmin "Brahmin") [Kshatriya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kshatriya "Kshatriya") [Vaishya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaishya "Vaishya") [Shudra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shudra "Shudra") [Ashrama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ashrama_\(stage\) "Ashrama (stage)") [Brahmacharya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahmacarya "Brahmacarya") [Grihastha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grihastha "Grihastha") [Vanaprastha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vanaprastha "Vanaprastha") [Sannyasa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sannyasa "Sannyasa") | | | [Festivals](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Hindu_festivals "List of Hindu festivals") | [Diwali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali") [Holi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holi "Holi") [Shivaratri]() [Raksha Bandhan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raksha_Bandhan "Raksha Bandhan") [Navaratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navaratri "Navaratri") [Durga Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_Puja "Durga Puja") [Ramlila](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramlila "Ramlila") [Vijayadashami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vijayadashami "Vijayadashami") [Ganesh Chaturthi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesh_Chaturthi "Ganesh Chaturthi") [Rama Navami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rama_Navami "Rama Navami") [Janmashtami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna_Janmashtami "Krishna Janmashtami") [Onam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Onam "Onam") [Pongal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pongal_\(festival\) "Pongal (festival)") [Makar Sankranti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Makar_Sankranti "Makar Sankranti") New Year [Bihu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bihu "Bihu") [Gudi Padwa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gudi_Padwa "Gudi Padwa") [Pahela Baishakh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pahela_Baishakh "Pahela Baishakh") [Puthandu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puthandu "Puthandu") [Vaisakhi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaisakhi "Vaisakhi") [Vishu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishu "Vishu") [Ugadi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ugadi "Ugadi") [Kumbh Mela](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kumbh_Mela "Kumbh Mela") [Haridwar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haridwar_Kumbh_Mela "Haridwar Kumbh Mela") [Nashik](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nashik-Trimbakeshwar_Simhastha "Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha") [Prayag](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prayag_Kumbh_Mela "Prayag Kumbh Mela") [Ujjain](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ujjain_Simhastha "Ujjain Simhastha") [Ratha Yatra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ratha_Yatra_\(Puri\) "Ratha Yatra (Puri)") [Teej](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teej "Teej") [Vasant Panchami](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vasant_Panchami "Vasant Panchami") [Others](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Hindu_festivals "Template:Hindu festivals") | | | Other | [Svādhyāya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sv%C4%81dhy%C4%81ya "Svādhyāya") [Namaste](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Namaste "Namaste") [Bindi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi_\(decoration\) "Bindi (decoration)") [Tilaka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tilaka "Tilaka") | | | [Related](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Hinduism "Portal:Hinduism") | [Hindus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindus "Hindus") [Etymology](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindus#Etymology "Hindus") [List](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lists_of_Hindus "Lists of Hindus") [Denominations](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_denominations "Hindu denominations") [Law](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_law "Hindu law") [Calendar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar "Hindu calendar") [Anti-Hindu sentiment](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anti-Hindu_sentiment "Anti-Hindu sentiment") [Criticism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Criticism_of_Hinduism "Criticism of Hinduism") [Hindu gurus and sants](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Hindu_gurus_and_sants "List of Hindu gurus and sants") [Hindu studies](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_studies "Hindu studies") [Iconography](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_iconography "Hindu iconography") [Mythology](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_mythology "Hindu mythology") [Nationalism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_nationalism "Hindu nationalism") [Hindutva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindutva "Hindutva") [Persecution](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Persecution_of_Hindus "Persecution of Hindus") [Pilgrimage sites](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_pilgrimage_sites "Hindu pilgrimage sites") [Bahi registers](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bahi_genealogy_registers "Bahi genealogy registers") [India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_pilgrimage_sites_in_India "Hindu pilgrimage sites in India") [Relations with other religions](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_and_other_religions "Hinduism and other religions") [Baháʼí](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bah%C3%A1%CA%BC%C3%AD_Faith_and_Hinduism "Baháʼí Faith and Hinduism") [Buddhism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddhism_and_Hinduism "Buddhism and Hinduism") [Islam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu%E2%80%93Islamic_relations "Hindu–Islamic relations") [Jainism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jainism_and_Hinduism "Jainism and Hinduism") [Judaism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_and_Judaism "Hinduism and Judaism") [Sikhism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_and_Sikhism "Hinduism and Sikhism") [Theosophy](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_and_Theosophy "Hinduism and Theosophy") [Glossary](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glossary_of_Hinduism_terms "Glossary of Hinduism terms") [Hinduism by country](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_by_country "Hinduism by country") [Hindu temples](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_temples "Hindu temples") [Lists](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lists_of_Hindu_temples "Lists of Hindu temples") [Architecture](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_temple_architecture "Hindu temple architecture") | | | ![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/41/Global_thinking.svg/20px-Global_thinking.svg.png) [Outline](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Outline_of_Hinduism "Outline of Hinduism") ![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/9/96/Symbol_category_class.svg/20px-Symbol_category_class.svg.png) [Category](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Hinduism "Category:Hinduism") [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/e/e2/Symbol_portal_class.svg/20px-Symbol_portal_class.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Symbol_portal_class.svg "Portal") [Portal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Hinduism "Portal:Hinduism") ![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/37/People_icon.svg/20px-People_icon.svg.png) [WikiProject](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:WikiProject_Hinduism "Wikipedia:WikiProject Hinduism") | | | | [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Public_holidays_in_Sri_Lanka "Template:Public holidays in Sri Lanka") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Public_holidays_in_Sri_Lanka "Template talk:Public holidays in Sri Lanka") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Public_holidays_in_Sri_Lanka "Special:EditPage/Template:Public holidays in Sri Lanka")![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/11/Flag_of_Sri_Lanka.svg/40px-Flag_of_Sri_Lanka.svg.png) [Public holidays in Sri Lanka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_Sri_Lanka "Public holidays in Sri Lanka") | | |---|---| | Jan–Mar | [Thai Pongal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thai_Pongal "Thai Pongal") [Duruthu Poya Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Duruthu_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 "Duruthu Poya Day (page does not exist)") [Independence Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independence_Day_\(Sri_Lanka\) "Independence Day (Sri Lanka)") [Navam Poya Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navam_Poya_Day "Navam Poya Day") [Maha Shivratri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivratri "Maha Shivratri") [Madin Poya Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Madin_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 "Madin Poya Day (page does not exist)") | | Apr–Jun | Sinhala and Tamil New Year Day eve [Sinhalese New Year](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sinhalese_New_Year "Sinhalese New Year")/[Tamil New Year](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamil_New_Year "Tamil New Year") [Bak Poya Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bak_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 "Bak Poya Day (page does not exist)") [Good Friday](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Good_Friday "Good Friday") [May Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Workers%27_Day "International Workers' Day") [Vesak Poya Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vesak "Vesak") Day following Vesak Poya Day [Id-Ul-Fitr (Ramazan Festival Day)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Fitr "Eid al-Fitr") [Poson](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poson "Poson") | | Jul–Sep | [Esala Poya Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Esala_Poya_Day "Esala Poya Day") [Id-Ul-Alha (Hadji Festival Day)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Adha "Eid al-Adha") [Nikini Poya Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Nikini_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 "Nikini Poya Day (page does not exist)") [Binara Poya Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Binara_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 "Binara Poya Day (page does not exist)") | | Oct–Dec | [Vap Poya Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Vap_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 "Vap Poya Day (page does not exist)") [Deepavali Festival Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali "Diwali") [Milad-Un-Nabi (Holy Prophet’s Birthday)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mawlid "Mawlid") [Ill Poya Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Ill_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 "Ill Poya Day (page does not exist)") [Unduvap Poya Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Unduvap_Poya_Day&action=edit&redlink=1 "Unduvap Poya Day (page 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| Maha Shivaratri | | |---|---| | [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/09/02_Mahashivratree_festival.JPG/250px-02_Mahashivratree_festival.JPG)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:02_Mahashivratree_festival.JPG)Meditating Shiva statue on Maha-Shivaratri | | | Observed by | [Hindus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindus "Hindus") | | Type | Religious | | Significance | Commemoration of the wedding of Shiva and Parvati Veneration of the Tandava dance of Shiva Manifestation of the lingam[\[1\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-SK-1) | | Observances | Fasting Self-study [Jagarana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jagran "Jagran") [Lingam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lingam "Lingam") [puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puja_\(Hinduism\) "Puja (Hinduism)") [Yoga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga "Yoga")[\[2\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-Melton2011p541-2) | | Date | Maha Krishna Chaturdashi | | 2026 date | 15 February (Sunday)[\[3\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-3) | | Frequency | Annual | | Explanatory note on Hindu festival dates | |---| | The [Hindu calendar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar "Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar") is lunisolar but most festival dates are specified using the lunar portion of the calendar. A lunar day is uniquely identified by three calendar elements: [*māsa*](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#chandramasa "Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar") (lunar month), [*pakṣa*](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#paksha "Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar") (lunar fortnight) and [*tithi*](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomical_basis_of_the_Hindu_calendar#tithi "Astronomical basis of the Hindu calendar") (lunar day). Furthermore, when specifying the masa, one of two traditions are applicable, viz. [*amānta*](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar#amanta "Hindu calendar") / [*pūrṇimānta*](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar#purnimanta "Hindu calendar"). If a festival falls in the waning phase of the moon, these two traditions identify the same lunar day as falling in two different (but successive) masa. A lunar year is shorter than a solar year by about eleven days. As a result, most Hindu festivals occur on different days in successive years on the Gregorian calendar. | | [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Hindu_festival_date_info "Template:Hindu festival date info") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Hindu_festival_date_info "Template talk:Hindu festival date info") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Hindu_festival_date_info "Special:EditPage/Template:Hindu festival date info") | **Maha Shivaratri** is a [Hindu festival](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_festival "Hindu festival") celebrated annually to worship the deity [Shiva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva "Shiva"), between February and March.[\[4\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-:0-4) According to the [Hindu calendar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_calendar "Hindu calendar"), The festival is observed on the chaturdashi (14th lunar day) of krishna paksha (waning moon) of the month of Magha or Phalguna.[\[4\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-:0-4)[\[5\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-JonesRyan2006p269-5) The month may vary from month of magh or Phalguna as per Purnimata and Amanta Calendar but is observed on the same lunar night across the regions. The festival commemorates the marriage of Shiva and [Parvati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parvati "Parvati"),[\[6\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-6) and the occasion of Shiva performing his [ritual dance](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sacred_dance "Sacred dance") called [tandava](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tandava "Tandava").[\[7\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-Dhoraisingam35-7)[\[8\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-auto1-8) It is a notable festival in [Hinduism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism "Hinduism"), marking a remembrance of "overcoming darkness and ignorance" in life and the world. It is observed by remembering Shiva and chanting prayers, [fasting](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vrata "Vrata"), and meditating on ethics and virtues such as honesty, non-injury to others, charity, forgiveness, and the discovery of Shiva.[\[5\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-JonesRyan2006p269-5) Ardent devotees stay awake throughout this night. Others visit one of the [Shiva temples](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva "Shiva") or go on a pilgrimage to the [Jyotirlingams](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jyotirlingam "Jyotirlingam"). The festival is believed to have originated in 5th century BCE.[\[5\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-JonesRyan2006p269-5) In [Kashmir Shaivism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kashmir_Shaivism "Kashmir Shaivism"), the festival is called Har-ratri or phonetically simpler Haerath or Herath by Shiva devotees of the Kashmir region.[\[9\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-brunn402-9)[\[10\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-maitra125-10) The term Maha Shivaratri is a compound of three Sanskrit elements: *maha (महा) meaning* "great", Shiva (शिव), the Hindu deity, and ratri (रात्रि), meaning "night". The literal meaning is "the Great Night of Shiva." The festival is observed annually on the *krishna paksha* (waning moon) *chaturdashi* (14th lunar day) of the month of [Magha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magha_\(month\) "Magha (month)") or [Phalguna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phalguna "Phalguna")[\[11\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-11) In the *Amanta* lunar calendar, where a lunar month ends on the new moon day (*Amavasiya*), the date falls in the month of Magha. In the *Purnimanta* lunar calendar, where a lunar month ends on the full moon day (*Purnima*), the same lunar day of Maha Shivaratri is reckoned as occurring in Phalguna. Despite the difference in month name, the festival is observed on the same lunar night across India.[\[12\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-12)[\[13\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-13) In [Kashmir](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kashmir "Kashmir"), Shivaratri is referred to as Herath (Kashmiri: हेरथ / ہیرَتھ). The name is commonly understood to derive from "Har Ratri" ("Night of Hara"), Hara being a name of Shiva. In the Kashmiri Pandit tradition, the observance of Herath expands beyond a single night and spans approximately twenty-three days, beginning with Hur-e-Okdoh (the first day of the dark fortnight of the *Purnimanta* month of Phaguna) and concluding on Teel-e-aetham (the eighth day of the bright fortnight of Phagun).[\[14\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-14)[\[15\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-15) Maha Shivratri is also known as Padmarajarathri (पद्मराजरात्रि), a sacred night dedicated to Lord Shiva, observed with fasting, prayers, and night-long worship by devotees.[\[16\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-16)[\[17\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-17) The origin of Maha Shivaratri is mentioned mainly in Puranic literature. One of the first mentions appears in the Shiva Purana, which links the story of the hunter Gurudruha with Shivaratri.[\[18\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-18) The story of Gurudruha, who is also referred to as Lubdhaka, is later found in the Javanese didactic text [Siwaratrikalpa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C5%9Aiwar%C4%81trikalpa "Śiwarātrikalpa"), which is dated to being composed between 1466 and 1478.[\[19\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-19) The festival is also mentioned in the Linga Purana and the Skanda Purana.[\[20\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-20) ### Archeological origins \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=5 "Edit section: Archeological origins")\] [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/21/Man_in_a_tree_fleeing_a_tiger._Mohenjo-daro.jpg/250px-Man_in_a_tree_fleeing_a_tiger._Mohenjo-daro.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Man_in_a_tree_fleeing_a_tiger._Mohenjo-daro.jpg) One of eighteen seals depicting the "human and tiger" motif from the [Indus Valley Civilization](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indus_Valley_Civilisation "Indus Valley Civilisation").[\[21\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-21) These seals closely resemble the story of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka) that is associated with Maha Shivaratri. According to some scholars, the Lubdhaka (hunter) legend associated with Maha Shivaratri may find its roots in the [Indus Valley Civilization.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indus_Valley_Civilisation "Indus Valley Civilisation")[\[22\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-22) Archaeological evidence such as the [Pashupati seal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pashupati_seal "Pashupati seal") has been widely interpreted by researchers as indicating early forms of Shiva or proto-Shaiva worship.[\[23\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-23) Archaeologist Gregory Possehl identified at least eighteen examples of a recurring "human and tiger" motif in Harappan glyptic art from sites including Harappa, Mohenjo-daro, and Chanhu-daro. These seals closely resemble the story of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka) that appears in the Shiva Purana.[\[24\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-24) ## Rituals and observances \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=6 "Edit section: Rituals and observances")\] > **A festival of contemplation** > > During the Vigil Night of Shiva, Mahashivaratri, > we are brought to the moment of interval > between destruction and regeneration; > it symbolizes the night > when we must contemplate on that which > watches the growth out of the decay. > During Mahashivaratri we have to be alone > with our sword, the Shiva out of us. > We have to look behind and before, > to see what evil needs eradicating from our heart, > what growth of virtue we need to encourage. > Shiva is not only outside of us but within us. > To unite ourselves with the One Self > is to recognize the Shiva in us. —*The Theosophical Movement, Volume 72*[\[25\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-25) Maha Shivaratri is particularly important in the [Shaivism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaivism "Shaivism") tradition of [Hinduism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism "Hinduism"). Shivaratri ("Night of Shiva") refers to the monthly observance that falls on the 14th night (*chaturdashi*) of every lunar fortnight during the waning phase of the moon. Each lunar month therefore contains one Shivaratri. Devotees observe fasting, night vigil (*jagarana*), and worship of the linga on these days. Thus, Maha Shivaratri may be understood as the "great" or preeminent Shivaratri among the twelve monthly Shivaratris in a lunar year.[\[26\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-26)[\[27\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-27) Unlike most Hindu festivals that are celebrated during the day, Maha Shivaratri is celebrated at night. It is a festival notable for its fasting and meditation on Shiva and an all-night vigil at Shiva temples.[\[5\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-JonesRyan2006p269-5) ### Night vigil *(jagarana)* \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=7 "Edit section: Night vigil (jagarana)")\] The celebration includes maintaining a [*jagarana*](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jagran "Jagran"), an all-night vigil and prayers, because Shaiva Hindus mark this night as "overcoming darkness and ignorance" in one's life and the world through Shiva. In temples, the night is divided into four quarters (p*raharas*), each with its own ritual worship and singing of mantras.[\[28\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-28)[\[29\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-29) Offerings of fruits, leaves, sweets and milk are made to Shiva, some perform all-day fasting with Vedic or Tantric worship of Shiva, and some perform meditative [yoga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga "Yoga").[\[30\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-30) The injunctions from the Kalanirnaya of Madhvacharya are also followed during the *jagarana.*[\[31\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-31) In [Shaivism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaivism "Shaivism"), fasting is traditionally associated with [Shiva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva "Shiva") worship. It is customary for the devotees of [Shiva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva "Shiva") not to eat anything until they worship him and make him offerings. On most of the days, devotees do not fast for a whole day because the worship is performed in the early morning. However, on the day of Maha Shivaratri, they wait because the worship continues late into the night.[\[32\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-32)[\[33\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-33)[\[34\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-34) During the fast, Iodized salt is completely avoided, and instead, food is prepared using rock salt or unrefined sea salt *(sendha namak)*. Those fasting may do "nirjala vrat," (fasting from all food and water), or fast from meat, eating only fruits and milk during the day.[\[35\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-:1-35) Eating food made from rice, wheat, or pulses is also discouraged.[\[36\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-36) *Tamasik* foods such as onion, garlic, and alcohol are also avoided as they are believed to increase lethargy.[\[37\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-37) The fast is broken on the next day *(chaturdashi)* after taking a bath.[\[38\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-38) Ritual worship (puja) of the [lingam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lingam "Lingam") is the central religious act of Maha Shivaratri. Devotees offer water, milk, yogurt, honey, ghee, and other sacred substances in the ritual known as abhisheka.[\[35\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-:1-35) Coconut water is generally avoided for the abhisheka, as it becomes *"nirmalaya"* (leftover of an offering) after being offered, and therefore becomes unconsumable.[\[39\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-39)[\[40\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-40) More than 49 types of plant species from 34 families are used as offerings to the deity throughout various regions of India on Maha Shivaratri. However, leaves of the bilva (Aegle marmelos), considered sacred to Shiva, are the most commonly offered plants.[\[41\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-41) In Kashmir, walnuts are soaked in water in earthen pots and buried in the ground for four to five days before Shivaratri. On the day of the festival, they are retrieved, offered to Lord Shiva, and distributed to devotees as [prasada.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prasada "Prasada")[\[42\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-42) Many regions in India and Nepal observe Maha Shivaratri not only through temple worship and fasting, but also through large public fairs (melas) and pilgrimage gatherings at important Shaiva sacred sites.[\[43\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-43) One of the most prominent gatherings takes place at the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, where Maha Shivaratri is among the largest annual religious festivals. Thousands of devotees, including ascetics and sadhus from across South Asia, assemble at the temple complex to perform night vigils, offer bilva leaves, and participate in ritual bathing in the nearby [Bagmati River](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bagmati_River "Bagmati River").[\[44\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-44) The [Mandi Shivaratri Fair](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandi_Shivaratri_Fair "Mandi Shivaratri Fair") held in the town of [Mandi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandi,_Himachal_Pradesh "Mandi, Himachal Pradesh") is also famous as a venue for Maha Shivaratri celebrations. It is believed that all gods and goddesses of the area, said to number more than 200, assemble here on the day of Maha Shivaratri.[\[45\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-mandi-45)[\[46\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-shiv-46) The significance of the dance tradition to this festival has historical roots. Maha Shivaratri has served as a historic confluence of artists for annual dance festivals at major Hindu temples such as at [Konark](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Konark_Sun_Temple "Konark Sun Temple"), [Khajuraho](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khajuraho_Group_of_Monuments "Khajuraho Group of Monuments"), [Pattadakal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pattadakal "Pattadakal"), [Modhera](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sun_Temple,_Modhera "Sun Temple, Modhera") and [Chidambaram](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thillai_Nataraja_Temple,_Chidambaram "Thillai Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram").[\[47\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-47) This event is called *[Natyanjali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natyanjali "Natyanjali")*, literally "worship through dance", at the Chidambaram temple which is famous for its sculpture depicting all dance mudras in the ancient Hindu text of performance arts called *[Natya Shastra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natya_Shastra "Natya Shastra")*.[\[48\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-48)[\[49\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-49) Similarly, at Khajuraho Shiva temples, a major fair and dance festival on Maha Shivaratri, involving Shaiva pilgrims camped over miles around the temple complex, was documented by Alexander Cunningham in 1864.[\[50\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-50) On Maha Shivaratri, many devotees perform pilgrimages to the major [Jyotirlinga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jyotirlinga "Jyotirlinga") Shiva temples of India, such as [Varanasi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varanasi "Varanasi") and [Somanatha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Somanatha "Somanatha"). They also serve as sites for fairs and special events.[\[51\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-51)[\[52\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-52) In Tamil Nadu, pilgrimages are also made to the [Annamalaiyar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arunachalesvara_Temple "Arunachalesvara Temple") temple located in [Tiruvannamalai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiruvannamalai "Tiruvannamalai") district. The special process of worship on this day is Girivalam or Giri Pradakshina, a 14-kilometer barefoot walk around Shiva's temple on top of the hill. A huge lamp of oil and [camphor](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camphor "Camphor") is lit on the hilltop at sunset, not to be confused with [Karthigai Deepam.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karthigai_Deepam "Karthigai Deepam")[\[53\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-53) A ritual marathon is undertaken by the devotees to the 12 Shiva shrines in the district of [Kanyakumari](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kanyakumari "Kanyakumari") on the day of Shivaratri called [Sivalaya Ottam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sivalaya_Ottam "Sivalaya Ottam"). During this period, the rope used for hoisting the temple flag is coated with turmeric powder.[\[54\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-54) In [Punjab](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punjab,_India "Punjab, India"), Shobha Yatras would be organised by various Hindu organisations in different cities. It is a grand festival for [Punjabi Hindus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punjabi_Hindus "Punjabi Hindus").[\[55\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-55) Maha Shivaratri is mentioned in several [Puranas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puranas "Puranas"), particularly the *[Skanda Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skanda_Purana "Skanda Purana")*, *[Linga Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linga_Purana "Linga Purana"),* and *[Padma Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Padma_Purana "Padma Purana")*. These medieval era Shaiva texts present different versions associated with this festival, such as fasting, and offering reverence to a [lingam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lingam "Lingam")—an emblematic figure of Shiva.[\[5\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-JonesRyan2006p269-5) Different legends describe the significance of Maha Shivaratri. According to one legend in the [Shaivism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaivism "Shaivism") tradition, this is the night when Shiva performs the heavenly dance of creation, preservation and destruction.[\[7\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-Dhoraisingam35-7)[\[8\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-auto1-8) The chanting of hymns, the reading of Shiva scriptures and the chorus of devotees joins this cosmic dance and remembers Shiva's presence everywhere. According to another legend, this is the night when Shiva and Parvati got married.[\[7\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-Dhoraisingam35-7)[\[56\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-56) It is also believed that on this particular day, Shiva gulped the [Halahala](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Halahala "Halahala") produced during the [Samudra Manthana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samudra_manthan "Samudra manthan") and held it in his neck, which bruised and turned blue. As a result, he acquired the epithet [Nilakantha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nilakanta_\(Hinduism\) "Nilakanta (Hinduism)").[\[57\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-57) ### The Lingodbhava legend \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=14 "Edit section: The Lingodbhava legend")\] The Linga Purana describes another legend known as *Lingodbhava* (the emergence of the linga) in connection with Maha Shivaratri.[\[58\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-58) In this account, Brahma and Vishnu dispute their supremacy. To settle the debate, a luminous pillar of fire suddenly appeared in front of them. This event was known as *lingodbhava* (the birth of the Linga). Brahma took the form of a swan and ascended, trying to find its top, while Vishnu took the form of a boar and descended, seeking its bottom. After thousands of years of fruitless search, both conceded that neither could find an end. At that moment, Shiva emerged from within the flame, and the first Linga was born. The day Shiva appeared and declared his eternal nature is believed to be the day of Maha Shivaratri.[\[59\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-59)[\[60\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-60)[\[61\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-61) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/70/Flickr_-_dalbera_-_Shiva_Natar%C3%A2dja%2C_Seigneur_de_la_Danse_%28mus%C3%A9e_Guimet%29.jpg/250px-Flickr_-_dalbera_-_Shiva_Natar%C3%A2dja%2C_Seigneur_de_la_Danse_%28mus%C3%A9e_Guimet%29.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Flickr_-_dalbera_-_Shiva_Natar%C3%A2dja,_Seigneur_de_la_Danse_\(mus%C3%A9e_Guimet\).jpg) Many legends explain the significance of Maha Shivaratri, one being it is the night of [Shiva's dance](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nataraja "Nataraja")(Tandava) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/5b/Aegle_marmelosleaf_05.JPG/250px-Aegle_marmelosleaf_05.JPG)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Aegle_marmelosleaf_05.JPG) Bilva (Aegle marmelos) leaves mentioned in the Legend of Gurudruha and traditionally offered to Shiva during Maha Shivaratri ### The legend of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka) \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=15 "Edit section: The legend of Gurudruha (Lubdhaka)")\] The [Shiva Purana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva_Purana "Shiva Purana") contains the popular and detailed story of a forest hunter named Gurudruha (also called Lubdhaka in Balineese texts), which narrates one of the earliest textual explanations for the ritual practice of bilipatra (bilva) leaf offerings during Maha Shivaratri. On one Maha Shivaratri night, Gurudruha, a hunter with no formal religious background, went to the forest to hunt and bring home food for his parents. To escape the threat of wild animals, he climbed a bilva tree. During the first quarter of the night, a hind deer came to drink from the lake. Gurudruha aimed his bow at her. The frightened deer pleaded for her life, explaining that she had young fawns at home and requesting permission to entrust them to her husband before returning to face death. After some hesitation, he agreed. While waiting for the deer to return and to keep himself awake the whole night, he plucked bilva leaves and dropped them to the forest floor. Unknown to Gurudruha, a Shiva linga rested directly beneath the tree. When dawn arrived, thousands of leaves lay upon the linga.[\[62\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-62)[\[63\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-63)[\[64\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-64) At dawn, the deer returned with her family and told the hunter that if he wished to kill her, he would also have to take their lives. As he raised his bow once more, additional bilva leaves fell upon the Shiva linga. The accumulated punya (spiritual merit) from the worship he had unknowingly performed throughout the night had destroyed his sins and transformed his heart. Thus, he released the deer. Pleased by Lubdhaka's accidental vigil and devotion, Shiva appeared before him and granted a boon, declaring that he would be reborn as the king of the town of Shrungaverapura and that [Lord Rama](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rama "Rama") would visit his home and ultimately grant him liberation. In his next life, Gurudruha was born as [Guha.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guha_\(Ramayana\) "Guha (Ramayana)")[\[65\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-65) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/da/Prabha_09.jpg/250px-Prabha_09.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Prabha_09.jpg) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/96/Kotappakonda.jpg/250px-Kotappakonda.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Kotappakonda.jpg) Mahashivaratri Celebrations of Kotappakonda ([Palnadu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palnadu_district "Palnadu district"), [Andhra Pradesh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andhra_Pradesh "Andhra Pradesh")) observed at night, usually in lighted temples or specially prepared *prabha* (above). [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f6/108_Night_View_Of_Pashupatinath_Temple.jpg/250px-108_Night_View_Of_Pashupatinath_Temple.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:108_Night_View_Of_Pashupatinath_Temple.jpg) Pashupatinath Temple Maha Shivaratri is a national holiday in Nepal and celebrated widely in temples all over the country, especially in the [Pashupatinath temple](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pashupatinath_temple "Pashupatinath temple"). Thousands of devotees visit the famous [Shiva Shakti Peetham](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakta_pitha "Shakta pitha") nearby as well. Maha Shivaratri is celebrated as Nepali Army Day amid a spectacular ceremony held at the Army Pavilion, [Tundikhel](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tundikhel "Tundikhel").[\[66\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-66) Crowds of sadhus and saints travel to Pashupatinath Temple located in Kathmandu from all of Nepal and neighbouring India to celebrate the day and perform puja on this day.[\[67\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-67) In Pakistan, Maha Shivaratri is observed by Hindu communities at several historic temple sites, including the Katas Raj Temples in Punjab. The festival is typically celebrated for one day and one night. In 2006, approximately 300 Indian pilgrims attended the festival at the site, and subsequent years saw participation by both Indian and Pakistani Hindus. In 2010 and 2011, around 2,000 Pakistani Hindus from various regions reportedly gathered at Katas Raj for Shivaratri observances. In 2005, Lal Krishna Advani visited the temple complex and publicly expressed concern over its deteriorated condition. The site is opened to the public only during Shivaratri celebrations, but restricted by the government for the rest of the year.[\[68\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-68) Another major temple where Shivaratri is celebrated is the [Shree Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple in Karachi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shree_Ratneshwar_Mahadev_Temple,_Karachi "Shree Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple, Karachi") whose Shivaratri festival is attended by 25,000 people.[\[69\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-69) On the Shivaratri night, Hindus in Karachi fast and visit the temple. Later, devotees from the [Chanesar Goth](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chanesar_Goth "Chanesar Goth") come to the temple carrying water from the holy river [Ganges](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganges "Ganges"), in order to bathe the idol of [Shiva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lord_Shiva "Lord Shiva"). [Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puja_\(Hinduism\) "Puja (Hinduism)") is performed until 5 am, followed by an [aarti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aarti "Aarti"). Devotees then walk barefoot with women carrying a [pooja thali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pooja_thali "Pooja thali") containing flowers, incense sticks, rice, coconut and a [diya](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diya_\(lamp\) "Diya (lamp)") to the sea after which they are free to break their fast. Breakfast is served in the temple kitchen.[\[70\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-Shazia_Hasan-70) Maha Shivaratri is the main Hindu festival among the [Shaiva Hindu diaspora](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaivite "Shaivite") from [Nepal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nepal "Nepal") and [India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India "India"). In [Indo-Caribbean](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indo-Caribbean "Indo-Caribbean") communities, thousands of Hindus spend the festival night in over four hundred temples across multiple countries, offering special *jhalls* (milk and curd, flowers, sugarcane and sweets) to Shiva.[\[71\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-71) In 2026, the PM of Trinidad and Tobago, [Kamla Persad-Bissessar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kamla_Persad-Bissessar "Kamla Persad-Bissessar"), celebrated Maha Shivaratri by visiting nine Hindu temples across her constituency overnight, joining devotees in the night vigil.[\[72\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-72) In Oman, Maha Shivaratri is observed by the Hindu diaspora at the historic [Motishwar Mandir](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motishwar_Mandir "Motishwar Mandir") in the Muttrah area of Muscat.[\[73\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-73)[\[74\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-74) The temple, dedicated to Shiva, was built in 1909 by the Bhatia merchant community from Sindh and Gujarat, whose trading networks had been present in Muscat since the early 16th century. The complex contains shrines to Adi Motishwar Mahadev and [Hanuman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanuman "Hanuman"), and serves as one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Persian Gulf region.[\[75\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-75) During Maha Shivaratri, more than 20,000 devotees gather at the temple to perform prayers and night-long worship dedicated to Shiva.[\[76\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-76) ### Outside the Indian subcontinent \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Maha_Shivaratri&action=edit&section=21 "Edit section: Outside the Indian subcontinent")\] In [Mauritius](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mauritius "Mauritius"), Hindus go on pilgrimage to [Ganga Talao](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganga_Talao "Ganga Talao"), a crater-lake.[\[77\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-77) Maha Shivaratri is known as Siwa Ratri in [Indonesia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indonesia "Indonesia") and is celebrated by Hindus in [Bali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bali "Bali") and [Java](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Java "Java") as a major festival.[\[78\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_note-78) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/15/Lord_Shiva_devotees_offering_milk%2C_flowers%2C_fruits_and_bel_leaves_on_a_Shivaling_for_seeking_divine_blessings%2C_in_a_city_temple_at_the_celebration_of_Maha_Shivaratri%2C_in_New_Delhi_on_February_23%2C_2009_%281%29.jpg/250px-thumbnail.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Lord_Shiva_devotees_offering_milk,_flowers,_fruits_and_bel_leaves_on_a_Shivaling_for_seeking_divine_blessings,_in_a_city_temple_at_the_celebration_of_Maha_Shivaratri,_in_New_Delhi_on_February_23,_2009_\(1\).jpg) A family worshipping [Shiva Linga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva_Linga "Shiva Linga") during fasting period. - [Pradosha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pradosha "Pradosha") - [Rudraksha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rudraksha "Rudraksha") - [Vibhuti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vibhuti "Vibhuti") - [Rudra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rudra "Rudra") - [Linga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linga "Linga") - [Rudrabhisheka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rudrabhisheka "Rudrabhisheka") - [Jalabhisheka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jalabhisheka "Jalabhisheka") 1. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-SK_1-0)** Stephen Knapp (2012), Hindu Gods & Goddesses, Jaico Publishing House, India, [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [9788184953664](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/9788184953664 "Special:BookSources/9788184953664") , page 110 2. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-Melton2011p541_2-0)** Melton, J. Gordon (2011). [*Religious Celebrations: An Encyclopedia of Holidays, Festivals, Solemn Observances, and Spiritual Commemorations*](https://books.google.com/books?id=lD_2J7W_2hQC). ABC-CLIO. pp. 541–542\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-59884-206-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-59884-206-7 "Special:BookSources/978-1-59884-206-7") . 3. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-3)** [15th February 2026, Sunday](https://www.drikpanchang.com/festivals/maha-shivaratri/maha-shivaratri-date-time.html?year=2026) 4. ^ [***a***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-:0_4-0) [***b***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-:0_4-1) Lochtefeld, James G. (2002). [*The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Hinduism: N-Z*](https://books.google.com/books?id=GnmPzgEACAAJ). Rosen. p. 637. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-8239-3180-4](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-8239-3180-4 "Special:BookSources/978-0-8239-3180-4") . 5. ^ [***a***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-JonesRyan2006p269_5-0) [***b***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-JonesRyan2006p269_5-1) [***c***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-JonesRyan2006p269_5-2) [***d***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-JonesRyan2006p269_5-3) [***e***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-JonesRyan2006p269_5-4) Jones, Constance; D. Ryan, James (2006). [*Encyclopedia of Hinduism*](https://books.google.com/books?id=OgMmceadQ3gC&pg=PA269). Infobase Publishing. p. 269. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-8160-7564-5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-8160-7564-5 "Special:BookSources/978-0-8160-7564-5") . 6. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-6)** Coulter, Charles Russell; Turner, Patricia (6 December 2021). [*Encyclopedia of Ancient Deities*](https://books.google.com/books?id=QEJUEAAAQBAJ&dq=shivaratri+wedding&pg=PA428). McFarland. p. 428. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-7864-9179-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-7864-9179-7 "Special:BookSources/978-0-7864-9179-7") . 7. ^ [***a***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-Dhoraisingam35_7-0) [***b***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-Dhoraisingam35_7-1) [***c***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-Dhoraisingam35_7-2) Dhoraisingam, Samuel S. (2006). [*Peranakan Indians of Singapore and Melaka*](https://books.google.com/books?id=QHwcAgAAQBAJ&pg=PA35). Institute of Southeast Asian Studies. p. 35. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-981-230-346-2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-981-230-346-2 "Special:BookSources/978-981-230-346-2") . 8. ^ [***a***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-auto1_8-0) [***b***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-auto1_8-1) Om Prakash Juneja; Chandra Mohan (1990). [*Ambivalence: Studies in Canadian Literature*](https://books.google.com/books?id=39FHAAAAYAAJ). Allied. pp. 156–157\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-7023-109-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-7023-109-7 "Special:BookSources/978-81-7023-109-7") . 9. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-brunn402_9-0)** Brunn, Stanley D. (2015). [*The Changing World Religion Map: Sacred Places, Identities, Practices and Politics*](https://books.google.com/books?id=CGh-BgAAQBAJ&pg=PA403). Springer. pp. 402–403\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-94-017-9376-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-94-017-9376-6 "Special:BookSources/978-94-017-9376-6") . 10. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-maitra125_10-0)** Maitra, Asim (1986). [*Religious Life of the Brahman: A Case Study of Maithil Brahmans*](https://books.google.com/books?id=f3LXAAAAMAAJ). Munshilal. p. 125. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-210-0171-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-210-0171-7 "Special:BookSources/978-81-210-0171-7") . 11. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-11)** Allard, Syama (10 March 2021). ["5 things to know about Maha Shivaratri"](https://hinduamerican.org/blog/5-things-to-know-about-maha-shivaratri/). *Hindu American Foundation*. Retrieved 12 February 2026. 12. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-12)** TEMPORAL CONCEPTS and PERCEPTION OF TIME in the Ancient Orient. Proceedings of the Workshop “Calendar Festivals of the Ancient Orient” held in St. Petersburg 20th–21th November 2020 edited by Vladimir V. Emelianov St. Petersburg 2021 13. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-13)** ["Lunar months - Purnimanta and Amanta system"](https://www.ekohumm.com/lunar-months-purnimanta-and-amanta-system). *ekohumm.com*. Retrieved 12 February 2026. 14. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-14)** ["MahaShivratri-Herath: The cultural code of Kashmir"](https://hindupost.in/dharma-religion/mahashivratri-herath-the-cultural-code-of-kashmir/). *hindupost.in*. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20240307095524/https://hindupost.in/dharma-religion/mahashivratri-herath-the-cultural-code-of-kashmir/) from the original on 7 March 2024. Retrieved 14 February 2026. 15. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-15)** ["Shivratri Puja (Vatak Puja / Herath Puja)"](https://www.kashmiribooks.com/kashmiri-shivratri-puja-vatak-puja-herath-puja-book). *www.kashmiribooks.com*. Retrieved 14 February 2026. 16. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-16)** Yadav, Puja (20 February 2020). ["Maha Shivratri 2020: Date, day, significance, puja time, importance and why celebrate"](https://www.indiatoday.in/information/story/maha-shivratri-2020-date-day-significance-puja-time-importance-and-why-celebrate-1648338-2020-02-20). *India Today*. Retrieved 15 February 2026. 17. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-17)** PTI (9 March 2013). ["Know why Mahashivratri is celebrated"](https://www.indiatvnews.com/news/india/know-why-mahashivratri-is-celebrated-20645.html). *[India TV News](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India_TV_News "India TV News")*. Retrieved 26 February 2026. 18. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-18)** SIVA PURANAM Published by Sri L.V. Subrahmanyam, I.A.S., Executive Officer, T.T.Devasthanams, Tirupati and Printed at T.T.D. Press, Tirupati. 19. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-19)** [*Kakawin Siwaratri Kalpa*](http://archive.org/details/kakawin-siwaratri-kalpa). 20. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-20)** ["Maha Shivratri 2025: Significance, History & Rituals of the Great Nigh"](https://gayatriheritage.com/blogs/our-blogs/maha-shivratri-2024-significance-history-rituals-of-the-great-night-of-shiva). *Gayatri Heritage*. 31 January 2025. Retrieved 14 February 2026. 21. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-21)** Possehl, Gregory L. "Indus folklore: an unknown story on some Harappan objects." *Intercultural relations between South and Southwest Asia. Studies in commemoration of ECL during Caspers (1934–1996). BAR International Series* (1826): 140-144. 22. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-22)** Kahoor, Khan, Shahbaig (19 July 2024). ["Deciphering Indus script and Pashupati Seal of Indus Valley Civilization"](https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4900721). [SSRN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SSRN_\(identifier\) "SSRN (identifier)") [4900721](https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4900721). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20250530154201/https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4900721) from the original on 30 May 2025. Retrieved 18 February 2026. `{{cite web}}`: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list ([link](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:CS1_maint:_multiple_names:_authors_list "Category:CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list")) 23. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-23)** Srinivasan, Doris (1975). ["The So-Called Proto-śiva Seal from Mohenjo-Daro: An Iconological Assessment"](https://www.jstor.org/stable/20062578). *Archives of Asian Art*. **29**: 47–58\. [ISSN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISSN_\(identifier\) "ISSN (identifier)") [0066-6637](https://search.worldcat.org/issn/0066-6637). [JSTOR](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/JSTOR_\(identifier\) "JSTOR (identifier)") [20062578](https://www.jstor.org/stable/20062578). 24. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-24)** Possehl, Gregory L. "Indus folklore: an unknown story on some Harappan objects." *Intercultural relations between South and Southwest Asia. Studies in commemoration of ECL during Caspers (1934–1996). BAR International Series* (1826): 140-144. 25. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-25)** ["Shiva"](https://web.archive.org/web/20230215001305/https://www.ultindia.org/tm_magazine/7204shiva.html). *The Theosophical Movement* (reprint). **72** (4). TEOS, Theosophy Company, Mumbai: 137. 2002 \[February 1962\]. Archived from [the original](http://www.ultindia.org/tm_magazine/7204shiva.html) on 15 February 2023. Retrieved 21 February 2020. 26. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-26)** ["Monthly Shivratri Fast - How to dp Masik ShivaRatri Fasting"](https://pujayagna.com/blogs/hindu-fasting-days/masik-shivratri). *Eshwar Bhakti*. Retrieved 14 February 2026. 27. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-27)** A, Bhavya (26 February 2025). ["Maha Shivratri"](https://cohna.org/maha-shivratri/). *Coalition of Hindus of North America*. Retrieved 14 February 2026. 28. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-28)** Raj, Selva J.; Harman, William P. (1 February 2012). [*Dealing with Deities: The Ritual Vow in South Asia*](https://books.google.com/books?id=h80yOTwlAUcC&q=vigil&pg=PA147). State University of New York Press. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-7914-8200-1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-7914-8200-1 "Special:BookSources/978-0-7914-8200-1") . 29. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-29)** Mahashivratri 2026: Timings And Puja Rituals Explained, Nikhil Pandey NDTV. 30. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-30)** [Mahashivaratri](http://www.odisha.gov.in/portal/LIWPL/event_archive/Events_Archives/150MAHA_SHIVA_RATRI.pdf) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20140327171257/http://www.odisha.gov.in/portal/LIWPL/event_archive/Events_Archives/150MAHA_SHIVA_RATRI.pdf) 27 March 2014 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine"), Government of Orissa; [Maha Shivaratri](http://publicholidays.in/maha-shivaratri/), Public Holidays 31. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-31)** **Vanlaltlani, T** and Patmury, Joseph (1994) *Sivaratri: An Indian festival of Repentance*. Doing theology with the festivals and customs of Asia, Singapore. pp 59-68 32. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-32)** ["Mahashivratri 2022: 5 Foods You Can Have While Observing Mahashivratri Vrat (Fast)"](https://www.ndtv.com/food/mahashivratri-2018-5-foods-you-can-have-while-observing-mahashivratri-vrat-fast-1811808). 33. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-33)** ["Maha Shivaratri Fasting Rules and Vrat Vidhi"](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/religion/rituals-puja/maha-shivaratri-fasting-rules-and-vrat-vidhi/articleshow/81434471.cms). *The Times of India*. 11 March 2021. 34. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-34)** ["Maha Shivaratri 2023: What to eat if you are fasting"](https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/bangalore/others/maha-shivaratri-2023-what-to-eat-if-you-are-fasting/articleshow/98028141.cms). 35. ^ [***a***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-:1_35-0) [***b***](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-:1_35-1) ["Cleanse your body this Maha Shivratri"](https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/recipe/cleanse-your-body-this-maha-shivratri-101646031274662.html). 28 February 2022. 36. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-36)** ["Mahashivratri 2023 fasting rules: Dos and don'ts to keep in mind while worshipping Lord Shiva"](https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/festivals/mahashivratri-2023-fasting-rules-dos-and-don-ts-to-keep-in-mind-while-worshipping-lord-shiva-101676468072865.html). *Hindustan Times*. 15 February 2023. Retrieved 18 February 2026. 37. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-37)** Trending Desk (15 February 2026). ["Mahashivratri 2026 fasting do's and don'ts: What to do and what to avoid while observing a fast for Lord Shiva"](https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/new-updates/maha-shivratri-2026-vrat-vidhi-lord-shiva-fasting-rules-timings-dos-and-donts-lord-shiva/articleshow/128341903.cms?from=mdr). *The Economic Times*. [ISSN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISSN_\(identifier\) "ISSN (identifier)") [0013-0389](https://search.worldcat.org/issn/0013-0389). Retrieved 18 February 2026. 38. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-38)** ["Mahashivratri 2023 fasting rules: Dos and don'ts to keep in mind while worshipping Lord Shiva"](https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/festivals/mahashivratri-2023-fasting-rules-dos-and-don-ts-to-keep-in-mind-while-worshipping-lord-shiva-101676468072865.html). 15 February 2023. 39. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-39)** ["Mahashivratri 2023 fasting rules: Dos and don'ts to keep in mind while worshipping Lord Shiva"](https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/festivals/mahashivratri-2023-fasting-rules-dos-and-don-ts-to-keep-in-mind-while-worshipping-lord-shiva-101676468072865.html). *Hindustan Times*. 15 February 2023. Retrieved 18 February 2026. 40. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-40)** USHA, B., K. VASANTHI, and C. ESAIVANI. "BIOREMEDIATION OF TEMPLE WASTES (NIRMALAYA) BY EMPLOYING EUDRILUS EUGENIAE." 41. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-41)** Mandal, Ushashee, et al. "Significance of Utilizing Plant Resource in Maha Shivratri For The Adoration of Lord Shiva, Odisha, India." *Purakala, 31 (33)* (2020): 0971-2143. 42. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-42)** Ayub, Humeera, Touseef Hussain Trak, and Ravi Upadhayay. "Inventorization of Ethnosacred plants of Kishtwar district." *World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research* 3.1 (2013): 1160. 43. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-43)** Sharma, L. R. (2005). [*Quality of Life in the Himalayan Region*](https://books.google.com/books?id=oThuRcNAaN4C&dq=shivaratri+fair&pg=PA164). Indus Publishing. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-81-7387-173-3](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-7387-173-3 "Special:BookSources/978-81-7387-173-3") . 44. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-44)** Sivananda, Swami, and Swami Sahajananda. *Hindu fasts and festivals*. Vol. 5. Divine Life Society, 1983. 45. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-mandi_45-0)** ["International Shivaratri fair in Mandi"](https://web.archive.org/web/20100414002705/http://himachaltourism.gov.in/post/Mandi.aspx). Himachal tourism. Archived from [the original](http://himachaltourism.gov.in/post/Mandi.aspx) on 14 April 2010. Retrieved 8 February 2012. 46. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-shiv_46-0)** ["The International Festival"](https://web.archive.org/web/20090401052653/http://mandishivratri.com/about-mandi.html). Archived from [the original](http://mandishivratri.com/about-mandi.html) on 1 April 2009. Retrieved 7 February 2010. 47. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-47)** Pintchman, Tracy (2007). [*Women's Lives, Women's Rituals in the Hindu Tradition*](https://books.google.com/books?id=7lOc8ZoLV0wC&pg=PA194). [Oxford University Press](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxford_University_Press "Oxford University Press"). pp. 194–195\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-19-803934-1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-19-803934-1 "Special:BookSources/978-0-19-803934-1") . 48. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-48)** Pintchman, Tracy (2007). [*Women's Lives, Women's Rituals in the Hindu Tradition*](https://books.google.com/books?id=7lOc8ZoLV0wC&pg=PA194). Oxford University Press. pp. 194–196\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-19-803934-1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-19-803934-1 "Special:BookSources/978-0-19-803934-1") . 49. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-49)** Pugh McCutchen, Brenda (2006). [*Teaching Dance as Art in Education*](https://books.google.com/books?id=C0yjXGJ3EEoC). Human Kinetics. p. 450. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-7360-5188-0](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-7360-5188-0 "Special:BookSources/978-0-7360-5188-0") . 50. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-50)** Shobita Punja (1999). [*Khajuraho: the first thousand years*](https://books.google.com/books?id=CwfWAAAAMAAJ). Penguin Books. pp. 71–74\. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [9780670891900](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/9780670891900 "Special:BookSources/9780670891900") . 51. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-51)** Eck, Diana L. (1982). [*Banras, City of Light*](https://books.google.com/books?id=lkkqAAAAYAAJ). Knopf. pp. 113, 256, 276. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [9780394519715](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/9780394519715 "Special:BookSources/9780394519715") . 52. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-52)** ["🔱Shivaratri - Shivaratri Dates, Schedule and Timing 2023 \| Next Shivaratri festival on 18 February 2023"](https://www.varanasiguru.com/maha-shivratri/). *varanasiguru.com*. 25 February 2022. Retrieved 11 February 2023. 53. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-53)** da Fonseca, Fátima Barahona. "NARRATIVES OF A SACRED MOUNTAIN. ARUNACHALA, TAMIL NADU, SOUTH OF INDIA." *URBAN DESIGN AND PLANNING*: 17. 54. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-54)** admin (18 October 2015). ["FAIRS AND FESTIVALS AT THIRUVITHAMCODE SHIVA AND VISHNU TEMPLES – AN OVERVIEW \| rjisacjournal.com"](https://www.rjisacjournal.com/fairs-and-festivals-at-thiruvithamcode-shiva-and-vishnu-temples-an-overview/). Retrieved 7 March 2026. 55. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-55)** ["Shiv Sena Punjab organises grand Shobha Yatra on Mahashivratri"](https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/jalandhar/shiv-sena-punjab-organises-grand-shobha-yatra-on-mahashivratri/). *The Tribune*. Retrieved 15 February 2026. 56. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-56)** Leuthold, Steven (2010). [*Cross-Cultural Issues in Art: Frames for Understanding*](https://books.google.com/books?id=z9GsAgAAQBAJ&pg=PA142). Routledge. pp. 142–143\. 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[*The Ascent of Vishnu and the Fall of Brahma*](https://books.google.com/books?id=F9FqDwAAQBAJ&dq=+Brahma+took+the+form+of+a+swan+and+ascended,+trying+to+find+its+top,+while+Vishnu+took+the+form+of+a+boar+and+descended,+seeking+its+bottom.++lingodbhava&pg=PA1). Relianz Communications Pty Ltd. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0-9757883-3-2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-9757883-3-2 "Special:BookSources/978-0-9757883-3-2") . 61. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-61)** Romano, Henry; Publications, DTTV. [*Ancient India and the Vedic Gods*](https://books.google.com/books?id=d5p1EAAAQBAJ&dq=lingodbhava+maha+shivaratri&pg=PA1923). Dttv Publications. 62. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-62)** Clifton, Wolf Gordon. "Sustainability policy and the stage of divine play: Hindu philosophy at the nexus of animal welfare, environment, and sustainable development." *Journal of Animal Ethics* 13.2 (2023): 169-183. 63. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-63)** Tanakuṅ (29 June 2013). [*Śiwarātrikalpa of MPU Tanakuṅ: An Old Javanese poem, its Indian source and Balinese illustrations*](https://books.google.com/books?id=kXXoCAAAQBAJ&dq=story+of+lubdhaka&pg=PR5). Springer. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-94-011-9429-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-94-011-9429-7 "Special:BookSources/978-94-011-9429-7") . 64. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-64)** Teeuw, A.; Galestin, Th. P.; Robson, S. O.; Worsley, P. J.; Zoetmulder, P. J. (1969), Teeuw, A.; Galestin, Th. P.; Robson, S. O.; Worsley, P. J. (eds.), ["Four Balinese Illustrations of the Tale of Lubdhaka"](https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-011-9429-7_3), *Śiwarātrikalpa of MPU Tanakuṅ: An Old Javanese poem, its Indian source and Balinese illustrations*, Dordrecht: Springer Netherlands, pp. 215–308, [doi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doi_\(identifier\) "Doi (identifier)"):[10\.1007/978-94-011-9429-7\_3](https://doi.org/10.1007%2F978-94-011-9429-7_3), [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-94-011-9429-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-94-011-9429-7 "Special:BookSources/978-94-011-9429-7") , retrieved 25 February 2026 `{{citation}}`: CS1 maint: work parameter with ISBN ([link](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:CS1_maint:_work_parameter_with_ISBN "Category:CS1 maint: work parameter with ISBN")) 65. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-65)** Siva Purana - English Translation - J. L. Shastri - Part 3. Pg. 1431 - 1439 66. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-66)** ["Nepali Army \| नेपाली सेना"](https://www.nepalarmy.mil.np/viewnews/379). 67. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-67)** PTI. ["About 10 lakh visitors expected to throng Pashupatinath temple on Maha Shivratri"](https://www.deccanherald.com/india/about-10-lakh-visitors-expected-to-throng-pashupatinath-temple-on-maha-shivratri-2928017). *Deccan Herald*. Retrieved 16 September 2024. 68. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-68)** Gondal, N. A., and S. Arif. "The Dying Temples of Hindus and Sikhs in Potohar Plateau: A Case." (2021): 241-250. 69. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-69)** ["150-year-old Hindu temple under threat in Karachi"](https://www.indiatoday.in/world/pakistan/story/shri-ratneshwar-mahadev-temple-karachi-overpass-pakistani-hindus-hrcp-187674-2014-04-04). *Indiatoday*. 4 April 2014. Retrieved 28 August 2020. 70. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-Shazia_Hasan_70-0)** Shazia Hasan (7 March 2016). ["Hindus celebrate Maha Shivratri festival in Karachi"](https://www.dawn.com/news/1243973). *Dawn*. Retrieved 28 August 2020. 71. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-71)** ["Trinidad Hindus observe Shivratri amid Carnival Celebration"](https://web.archive.org/web/20160921150332/https://repeatingislands.com/2014/03/01/trinidad-hindus-observe-shivratri-amid-carnival-celebration/). Repeating Islands. 2 March 2014. Archived from [the original](https://repeatingislands.com/2014/03/01/trinidad-hindus-observe-shivratri-amid-carnival-celebration/) on 21 September 2016. Retrieved 31 August 2016. 72. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-72)** ["PM observes Maha Shivaratri with overnight temple visits"](https://trinidadexpress.com/newsextra/pm-observes-maha-shivaratri-with-overnight-temple-visits/article_ab5e34c0-ec4b-4588-ac29-f085c19c5c4c.html). *Trinidad Express Newspapers*. 16 February 2026. Retrieved 7 March 2026. 73. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-73)** Pattnaik, Jajati K.; Panda, Chandan K. (30 June 2022). ["INDIAN DIASPORA IN OMAN"](https://doi.org/10.37867/te1402116). *Towards Excellence*: 1401–1414\. [doi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doi_\(identifier\) "Doi (identifier)"):[10\.37867/te1402116](https://doi.org/10.37867%2Fte1402116). [ISSN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISSN_\(identifier\) "ISSN (identifier)") [0974-035X](https://search.worldcat.org/issn/0974-035X). 74. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-74)** Mehta, Sandhya Rao (2 October 2022). ["Strategic Belonging: Hindu Identity and Performance in Oman"](https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/25765949.2022.2151741). *Asian Journal of Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies*. **16** (4): 402–416\. [doi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doi_\(identifier\) "Doi (identifier)"):[10\.1080/25765949.2022.2151741](https://doi.org/10.1080%2F25765949.2022.2151741). [ISSN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISSN_\(identifier\) "ISSN (identifier)") [2576-5949](https://search.worldcat.org/issn/2576-5949). 75. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-75)** Markovits, Claude (22 June 2000). [*The Global World of Indian Merchants, 1750–1947: Traders of Sind from Bukhara to Panama*](https://books.google.ca/books?hl=en&lr=&id=M2vu7Odjz6kC&oi=fnd&pg=PP1&dq=The+Global+World+of+Indian+Merchants,+1750%E2%80%931947:+Traders+of+Sind+from+...&ots=G-9UBfwKy6&sig=SeI6muYSU9Sx1PwSoE9XOYbvJ0k#v=onepage&q=The%20Global%20World%20of%20Indian%20Merchants,%201750%E2%80%931947:%20Traders%20of%20Sind%20from%20...&f=false). Cambridge University Press. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_\(identifier\) "ISBN (identifier)") [978-1-139-43127-9](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-139-43127-9 "Special:BookSources/978-1-139-43127-9") . 76. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-76)** ["PM Narendra Modi visits Shiva temple in Oman"](https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/pm-narendra-modi-visits-shiva-temple-in-oman/articleshow/62884919.cms?from=mdr). *The Economic Times*. 12 February 2018. [ISSN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISSN_\(identifier\) "ISSN (identifier)") [0013-0389](https://search.worldcat.org/issn/0013-0389). Retrieved 7 March 2026. 77. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-77)** ["The sacred lake of Ganga Talao"](https://www.cnn.com/2016/05/03/africa/maha-shivaratri-mauritius/index.html). CNN. 3 May 2016. Retrieved 12 June 2018. 78. **[^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri#cite_ref-78)** <https://thebalisun.com/incredible-hindu-festival-in-java-is-an-essential-add-on-adventure-for-bali-tourists/> - [![Wikimedia Commons logo](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/4a/Commons-logo.svg/20px-Commons-logo.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Commons-logo.svg) Media related to [Shivaratri](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Shivaratri "commons:Category:Shivaratri") at Wikimedia Commons - [Maha Shivaratri celebrations in the USA by The Pluralism Project](http://pluralism.org/religions/hinduism/the-hindu-experience/the-great-night-of-shiva/) - [Mahashivratri images](https://www.ibc24.in/maha-shivratri-2022/full-hd-shivratri-images-780887.html)

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